Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament Returns to Wellington, Florida April 24-26

Nearly 2,000 people are expected to attend the 15th anniversary of the Gay Polo League (GPL)’s International Gay Polo Tournament, taking place April 24–26 in Wellington, Florida. The Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament will celebrate this milestone at the exclusive Patagones Polo Club with a festive weekend of competition, equality, and camaraderie.

Recognized as one of the most unique and exciting social and sporting events of the season, the three-day celebration draws a diverse, international crowd and features 16 players from around the world.

The weekend kicks off on Thursday, April 24 with the Polo Players Reception, an invitation-only gathering for sponsors, players, and GPL members.

On Friday, April 25, GPL Polotini presents WIGSTOCK, a lively, hair-raising extravaganza known as a highlight of the weekend. Attendees don their most fabulous outfits and extravagant wigs—because, as they say, the higher the hair, the closer to heaven. DJ Citizen Jane will keep the party going with music throughout the night, accompanied by dancing, an open bar, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, and live entertainment. This year, the Elton John AIDS Foundation returns as the GPL’s official charity partner, having received more than $100,000 from last year’s event. WIGSTOCK will be held at the Museum of Polo & Hall of Fame, located at 9011 Lake Worth Road in Wellington.

The main event takes place on Saturday, April 26, when four international polo teams face off in the Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament. Gates open at noon, with matches scheduled for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Spectators can enjoy the annual tailgate competition featuring creative themed setups, live entertainment, gourmet food, and craft cocktails, all while watching top-tier polo on the world-class Patagones field.

Saturday also brings a vibrant display of pageantry, including the “Flags of Nations” horseback procession and performances by the South Florida Pride Marching Band, the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, and Cheer Miami.

VIP ticket holders will be treated to an elevated experience in the Cherry Knoll Farm VIP Tent, offering field-side views of the final matches, open bar service, and a luxurious menu featuring carving stations, Shrimp Creole, Smoked Salmon, a seafood extravaganza, and more.

"Celebrating 15 years of GPL’s flagship event in Wellington propels us to create and produce the best experience by far, to bring people together to enjoy the best of us," said Chip McKenney, GPL Founder and President. “My initial goal was to encourage greater diversity and inclusion in the sport of polo, and now we have polo players, fans, and allies who come from all over the world to participate. GPL is changing perceptions in the LGBTQ+ community, athletics, and society at large, one chukker at a time.”

The Gay Polo League is a truly international organization, having hosted tournaments in the United Kingdom, St. Tropez, Lexington, Kentucky, and Menlo, California. Each December, GPL also travels to Argentina for the Argentine Open and a week of polo in Lobos. This year’s additional tournaments include Chantilly, France in mid-July and Lexington, Kentucky from September 4–6.

For tickets and more information, visit www.gaypolo.com.