Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)
The largest and longest-running horse show in the world, featuring 12 weeks of world-class hunter, jumper, and equitation competition.
About WEF
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is the crown jewel of the North American show circuit. Held annually in Wellington, Florida, this 12-week extravaganza attracts the world's top riders, trainers, and horses. With over $13 million in prize money, WEF features FEI-rated jumper competition, prestigious hunter derbies, and premier equitation championships. The festival transforms Palm Beach County into the winter capital of the equestrian world.
Disciplines
History
WEF began in 1974 as a small local show and has grown into the world's largest equestrian sporting event. The show's expansion accelerated in the 1990s under the leadership of Mark Bellissimo and Equestrian Sport Productions. Today, WEF encompasses over 200 acres of state-of-the-art facilities and attracts competitors from over 50 countries.
Event Highlights
Pricing & Entry Fees
$150-$1,500 per class
$1,200-$2,500 per week
Free-$50
$200-$5,000
Early booking recommended for stabling
Facilities & Amenities
Requirements to Compete
- 1USEF membership
- 2FEI registration (international classes)
- 3Horse health certificates
- 4Coggins test within 12 months
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) 2026?
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) 2026 runs from January 8 to April 2, 2026. The event lasts 12 weeks.
Where is the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) held?
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) is held at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida at 3400 Equestrian Club Drive.
How much does it cost to enter the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
Entry fees for the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) range from $150-$1,500 per class. Stall fees are typically $1,200-$2,500 per week. Early booking recommended for stabling
What disciplines are featured at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) features competition in Show Jumping, Hunters, Equitation, Dressage.
How can I watch the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
Spectator tickets for the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) are Free-$50. VIP packages are available for $200-$5,000. Visit https://pbiec.com for ticket information.
What are the highlights of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
Key highlights of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) include: $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix, $500,000 Hunter Spectacular, USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship, Nations Cup qualifier.
Where should I stay for the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
Accommodation options near the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) include: Wellington Green hotels, Private home rentals, Palm Beach resorts, RV parking available.
What are the requirements to compete at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF)?
Requirements to compete at the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) include: USEF membership, FEI registration (international classes), Horse health certificates, Coggins test within 12 months.
Quick Links
Location
Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
3400 Equestrian Club Drive
Wellington, Florida
United States
Where to Stay
- Wellington Green hotels
- Private home rentals
- Palm Beach resorts
- RV parking available
Awards & Prizes
- Over $13 million in prize money
- Championship trophies and ribbons
- Leading rider awards
- Sportsmanship awards
Related Events
Planning to Attend WEF?
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