The year of the horse has truly begun as Wellington International kicks off its 52nd year of the iconic Winter Equestrian Festival.
And every Saturday evening during the 12-week season, WEF top riders from around the globe are celebrated center stage -under the glow of the stadium lights. A lively celebration where a community of horse lovers come out in full force to enjoy what is officially known as Saturday Night Lights.
The premier SNL this past Saturday was one of the family favorites of the WEF season, featuring an eight-member team show jumping relay where boys in blue versus girls in pink compete for 75K in the “Battle of the Sexes” presented by LeMieux. The evening ended erupting in loud cheers from the crowd during the neck-to-neck -nail-biting finale where rider Jessica Mendoza and her horse Noble Tropicana squeaked out the lead against Luis Larrazabal on his horse Asconos Girl Z. With just a 3-point lead, the girls took home the blue ribbons after consecutive losses over the last three years.
For many spectators, SNL has become more than a sporting event- it’s a ritual, a chance to catch up with friends, and enjoy stunning equestrian performances while watching elite athletes and their magical horses under the Florida winter skies.
Each week features a different sponsored competition filled with passion and high energy -including the highly anticipated Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments® on January 31, 2026, where 1.5 million dollars are divvied out to over thirty local non-profits.
Beyond horses, adults can enjoy special cocktails from the various bars located throughout the venue while families can feast on various international foods from over 15 vendors on site. For the kids, there is a carousel, petting farm, face painting, and games located in the entrance area of the show grounds.
Also featured in the family area this past Saturday evening, in a continuing community partnership with local non-profits in the area, a special tent featuring Arts For Smiles Inc. invited children to create pink and blue horse necklaces, color with markers and take home an inspirational beaded bracelet.
Other various amenities include VIP hospitality areas with dining options, a luxury retail shopping area, and even private event spaces where fans can enjoy private dining and corporate experiences.
It is recommended to get there early as most evenings the gates open at 6PM and the main show starts at 7/7:30PM.
For specific details and sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://www.wellingtoninternational.com/
