Holiday and Horses Circuit Set to Boost Palm Beach County Economy Ahead of Winter Equestrian Festival
The Palm Beaches will once again host world-class equestrian sports with the return of the Holiday & Horses Circuit, scheduled from November 27 to December 22, 2024, at Wellington International. This annual event, held before the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), has become a standalone attraction, boosting the Palm Beach County economy by extending the impact of equestrian sports.
This year, Holiday & Horses is expected to draw over 1,000 equestrian athletes, generating substantial visitor spending. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission estimates the 2023 event contributed over $13 million to the local hospitality and restaurant sectors. Holiday & Horses concludes just over a week before WEF, the world’s largest annual equestrian event, kicks off. Last year, WEF’s 13-week series generated $403.6 million in economic impact for Palm Beach County, up from $351.7 million in 2023. This longstanding event, held from January to March, spurs significant local economic benefits, including job creation, increased earnings, and tourism-related spending.
“Equestrian sports have long been an essential economic driver in The Palm Beaches,” said George Linley, Executive Director of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. “Our support of the Holiday & Horses Circuit reflects our commitment to hosting world-class equestrian events and the positive impact they bring.”
Wellington International, the event’s host site, is the most iconic equestrian venue in the U.S., spanning 500 acres with 80 acres dedicated to competition arenas. All 18 arenas feature top-tier sand footing, with the main International Arena surrounded by stadium and box seating, along with hospitality pavilions for private events. The venue also offers more than 250 permanent horse stalls, horse trails, pedestrian paths, golf cart routes, and dedicated shopping areas.
To see a full calendar of upcoming sports events in The Palm Beaches, visit palmbeachsports.com/events.
