Champagne, Style & Sport: Polo Sundays in The Palm Beaches

Looking for a unique Sunday activity in The Palm Beaches? Polo season in Wellington delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends world-class sport, social energy, and family-friendly fun. From thrilling matches to iconic traditions, polo is one of the most exciting things to do in Palm Beach County on a Sunday afternoon.

If you’ve never been to a polo match, you’re missing out. But not to worry, we’ll tell you everything you need to know, from what to wear and what to bring, to ticket options and the traditions you won’t want to miss out on, all so you can experience this exhilarating sport that’s fun for all ages.  

The Rich History of Polo in The Palm Beaches

Polo has been a part of The Palm Beaches’ identity for over a century, dating back to the 1920s when the area emerged as a premier destination for the elite. With its warm climate, sprawling green fields, and luxurious ambiance, the area quickly became a natural home for equestrian sports.

The sport’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1970s, thanks to the late William Ylvisaker, who founded the legendary Palm Beach Polo and Country Club in Wellington. His vision solidified The Palm Beaches as a global polo hub, drawing top-tier players and high-profile spectators—including Prince Harry, who captivated crowds during a match in April 2024.

Today, polo is experiencing a renaissance, partly fueled by the Netflix documentary POLO, filmed in Wellington. The series offers an exclusive look into the exhilarating world of professional players, both on and off the field, introducing a new generation to the sport’s excitement and prestige.

What to Know Before You Go: Polo Basics & Game-Day Traditions

You’d probably be surprised to learn the size of the field is 300×160 yards. That’s approximately the size of nine football fields! The objective of the game is to direct the ball between the opponent’s goalposts, and the team with the most goals wins the game. 

Much like football, the initial direction of each team is chosen based on a coin toss at the beginning of the game. Direction is changed after each goal is scored. A polo match generally lasts about one to two hours and is divided into periods called chukkers, which last 7.5 minutes each.

During halftime, it’s fun for the whole family! The tradition is to participate in the “divot stomp” — walk out on the field and stomp the divots kicked up by the hooves of the horses and help flatten the surface.

The best part? Free champagne is poured to those who participate! Also, it’s a great time to let the kids run loose and play pretend polo to get some energy out. You may even get to meet some famous players during the break, too!

What to Wear to a Polo Match

We encourage you to wear your “Sunday best” to polo matches at IPC. If you’re a lady, a sundress or crisp white pants and a printed top are typical. Wedges or sandals are great choices for footwear, since you may be walking across the grass field. And sunglasses and hats are essential for looking chic while keeping you comfortable in the sun. Get into the spirit of the Wellington atmosphere and sprinkle in equestrian accessories like horse-bit earrings or a printed carousel cashmere scarf by Rani Arabella.

Men typically dress in business-casual wear such as khaki slacks or chino pants paired with a button-down shirt. Peter Millar makes a great performance sport button-down shirt if you’re looking to stay cool in the warm sunshine. If you like sporting a fedora or bow tie, this is definitely the sport to break those out.

The look is classic Palm Beaches, effortless, elegant, and comfortable.

Where to Watch: Prime Viewing Spots for Polo Fans

The National Polo Center offers a variety of ticket options, from The Pavilion, tailgate options, box seats, and more. The Champagne Brunch on Sundays is a highlight for the socialites, and it features an ever-changing array of delicious food and refreshments at different stations, with a close-up view of the action. Brunch starts at 2 p.m. The Champagne Brunch is the place to be.

Sunday Brunch at the National Polo Center

For many guests, brunch is the heart of a Sunday polo match in The Palm Beaches. Hosted at the National Polo Center’s Pavilion, polo brunch combines elevated dining with front-row views of world-class polo, creating a social experience that goes far beyond the match itself.

Brunch tickets include a buffet-style spread and access to shaded seating overlooking the field, making it an easy, polished way to enjoy the game without packing a picnic or setting up a tailgate. Guests can dine, sip, and mingle as the match unfolds, soaking in the lively atmosphere that makes polo Sundays such a standout event.

With its stylish crowd, scenic setting, and relaxed Sunday energy, polo brunch has become one of the most popular ways to experience polo in Wellington, especially for first-timers looking for a seamless, memorable afternoon.

Experience Polo in Wellington, Florida

Wellington is known as the equestrian capital of the world, and polo is one of its most celebrated traditions. Every Sunday during the season, the National Polo Center hosts high-goal matches featuring top international players and elite horses. The fast-paced action, wide-open fields, and lively crowd make it easy to see why polo draws both locals and visitors year after year.

Even if you’ve never watched a match before, polo is approachable, exciting, and easy to enjoy, no prior knowledge required.