Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) – Wellington, Florida
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Wellington, Florida is the world’s largest and longest-running hunter/jumper horse show circuit, attracting Olympic riders, top trainers, and thousands of spectators each season. Held at Wellington International from January through March, WEF features elite FEI-rated competitions, Saturday Night Lights Grand Prix events, dressage showcases, family-friendly entertainment, and premier equestrian shopping.
Whether you’re a competitor, horse owner, or first-time visitor, this guide covers WEF dates, weekly schedule, tickets, parking, what to expect, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Winter Equestrian Festival Dates & Location
- Location: Wellington International, 3400 Equestrian Club Dr, Wellington, FL
- Season: January – March (12 weeks)
- Disciplines: Hunter, Jumper, Equitation, FEI CSI2*–CSI5*
- Spectators: Open to the public on select days
WEF Weekly Schedule Overview
Below is a general overview of the 12-week structure. Exact dates vary each year, but the weekly format remains consistent.
| Week | Rating | Major Events |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | National | Opening Week |
| Week 2 | National | Hunter/Jumper Competition |
| Week 3 | CSI3* | Grand Prix Qualifier |
| Week 4 | CSI2* | WEF Premiere |
| Week 5 | CSI4* | Saturday Night Lights Grand Prix |
| Week 6 | CSI5* | Premier Grand Prix Week |
| Week 7 | National | Hunter Week |
| Week 8 | CSI3* | Challenge Cup |
| Week 9 | CSI4* | Grand Prix Week |
| Week 10 | National | Derby Week |
| Week 11 | CSI4* | Finale Prep |
| Week 12 | Championship | WEF Finale Week |
How to Attend the Winter Equestrian Festival
Tickets
- General admission: Free on most days
- Saturday Night Lights: Free, but arrive early
- VIP tables: Available through Wellington International
Parking
- General parking: Free or low-cost depending on the day
- VIP parking: Available with certain ticket packages
- Ride-share drop-off: Clearly marked at the main entrance
What to Expect at WEF
- World-class show jumping
- Hunter and equitation rings
- Dozens of equestrian vendors
- Food trucks and restaurants
- Kids’ activities
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with riders
- Nighttime Grand Prix events
Best Days to Visit WEF
- Saturday Night Lights: The most popular weekly event
- Derby Week (Week 10): A fan favorite
- Championship Week (Week 12): Season finale
- Mid-week mornings: Best for photography and quiet exploration
What to Wear to WEF
- Comfortable shoes
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sun protection
- Optional: Sundress, polo, or resort-casual attire for VIP areas
Nearby Hotels & Restaurants
Visitors often stay in Wellington, Palm Beach, or nearby equestrian communities. Popular options include:
- Wellington hotels
- Palm Beach hotels
- Wellington restaurants
- Equestrian-friendly Airbnbs
Why WEF Matters
The Winter Equestrian Festival is a cornerstone of the global equestrian calendar. With millions in prize money, FEI-rated competitions, and participation from Olympic medalists, WEF sets the tone for the international show-jumping season. Riders from over 30 countries compete here, making Wellington one of the world’s most important equestrian destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Winter Equestrian Festival?
WEF runs annually from January through March.
Where is WEF held?
At Wellington International in Wellington, Florida.
Is WEF open to the public?
Yes — many events are free to attend.
How much are WEF tickets?
Most daytime events are free; VIP and special events require tickets.
What events happen during WEF?
Grand Prix jumping, hunter classes, equitation, FEI competitions, and Saturday Night Lights.