The lively spirit and energetic flare of Brazil will come to Atherton this month at the Menlo Charity Horse Show, which runs from Aug. 9 through 14 at the Menlo Circus Club in Atherton.

Organizers say this year's theme is inspired by the 2016 summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. The show, which observes its 46th anniversary this year, will feature 500 top-ranked horses from the U.S. equestrian show circuit. Funds raised go to the Vista Center for Blind & Visually Impaired.

Showtime is 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day at the Circus Club, located at 190 Park Lane in Atherton. Forty kiosks will sell clothing, art, jewelry, food and stable items throughout the event.

On Monday, Aug. 8, Neiman Marcus at the Stanford Shopping Center will host a kickoff party from 6 to 8 p.m. for committee members, exhibitors, trainers, and friends of the show.

Tuesday and Wednesday will feature family fun with pony classes and a "Pony Palooza."

One of the major events is Thursday evening's $20,000 International Hunter Derby presented by Dr. Daryl K Hoffman of Atherton.

On Friday evening, there is a gala dinner after the $10,000 Ryman Speed Jumping Class presented by Stephen Silver. The painting "Cloud Jumper" by Rick Timmons will be auctioned at the gala. There will be guest appearances from top U.S. Olympians. Tickets for the gala are $250 each.

On Saturday is the $40,000 Grand Prix event, sponsored by Bentley San Francisco and Bentley Los Gatos.

Complimentary shuttle service will be available from a nearby parking area to the venue. Children under 12 and adults over 65 are admitted free. Tickets will be sold at the entry gate at $10 per day or $35 for a six-day pass.

Menlocharityhorseshow.org has more information.