During the 12-week long equestrian extravaganza at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, Florida, spectators, horse-fanatics, and the top competitors come together on showgrounds of 500 acres to the most recognized equestrian sporting event in the world. The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is the topic of conversation during the months of Jan. through March. as riders, some in which are Olympic gold-medalists, from all 50 U.S. states and 33 countries are represented.

Competitors of WEF have the ability to challenge one another to more than $9 million in money prizes, enthralling the interests of thousands of spectators each week as they travel to Wellington, eventually totalling in roughly 250,000 observers over the 12-week long event.

Weekdays at PBIEC consist of smaller competitions of junior and amateur riders ranging from the ages of two to 70 years old as they show in numerous divisions of over 65 choices; being judged on “hunt seat” – the technical proficiency of the rider and their horse within the restraints of a set course design of jumps. Weekends consist of events more advanced, in which famous Olympic riders such as Eric Lamaze, Beezie Madden, and Kent Farrington and other top riders compete in classes like the FEI Nations Cup, the $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix, the Battle of the Sexes, and the Jumper Derby.

The well-known weekly event, Saturday Night Lights not only consists of professional show jumping, but a vast lineup of entertainment. Throughout the showgrounds, performers and bands are heard and seen as spectators have the opportunity to sit down to fine dining alongside of the arena in VIP venues, or can grab a quick bite to eat in any of the multiple food vendors of numerous options. The satisfaction does not stop there, for spectators can shop for WEF clothing and souvenirs at many stores including the WEF Boutique. With a total of 12 showing arenas, boredom is not possible as riders and their horses fill each one, jumping different heights and competing for different prizes.   

The idea of being able to attend WEF to watch the very best world equestrian jumpers compete against each other may sound divine being that it is a local event for South Floridians, but that idea becomes limitless due to the fact that the event is free for all and for any. It is fanciful to think that the price of a hot dog will cost more than having the ability to sit in the bleachers and watch the event from just a few feet away.

As of now, WEF is only through Week 7 and the main events are still to come as numerous sets of top riders and horses compete for their chance to win half of a million dollars during the final week of the Winter Equestrian Festival.