Polo Hamptons 2026: Complete Guide to Tickets, Dress Code & Events

There’s a reason polo earned the nickname “sport of kings.” Essentially, the combination of thundering hooves, precision athleticism, and champagne-fueled socializing creates something that feels like stepping into a scene from The Great Gatsby. In the Hamptons, that scene plays out every summer across manicured fields from Water Mill to Bridgehampton.

Notably, Polo Hamptons stands as the most accessible entry point for spectators. Unlike private club matches that require membership or invitation, this event opens its gates to anyone willing to secure a ticket. However, there’s a catch: with only 900 tickets per date, those gates close fast.

2026 Event Details

Polo Hamptons 2026 follows the established format that’s made previous years sell out. Specifically, two July events anchor the peak of summer social season. Because the event has sold out by July 10 for ten consecutive years, early ticket purchases are essential.

Event Schedule

The three-hour window includes pre-match cocktails, the polo match itself, and post-match socializing. Throughout the event, guests have access to an open bar paired with hors d’oeuvres catered by Elegant Affairs. Additionally, the event runs rain or shine.

Getting There

The organizers strongly recommend taking Uber or a car service. While complimentary parking is available, navigation in and out of the venue is easier without your own vehicle. Specifically, the address is 900 Lumber Lane in Bridgehampton, set against the rolling fields that make this region ideal for polo.

Critical: No tickets are sold at the event. Therefore, if you show up hoping to buy at the gate, you’ll be watching from the road.

Ticket Options and Pricing

Polo Hamptons offers tiered access, ranging from individual tickets to private cabanas. Although pricing shifts year to year, here’s what to expect based on recent events. Given a decade-long track record of selling out by July 10, waiting is not a strategy.

2026 Ticket Tiers (Estimated)

Cabanas sell out first. If you’re planning a group outing, these offer the best value per person and the most photogenic setup. Furthermore, they’re the smartest move for brand activations or client entertainment. Because only 900 tickets are available per date and ten years of pre-July sellouts have established the pattern, the window closes fast.

You can purchase tickets through the official Polo Hamptons website.

What to Wear to Polo in the Hamptons

Polo dress code sits at an interesting intersection: more elevated than a beach club, yet less formal than a gala. In essence, think garden party with an athletic backdrop. Ultimately, the goal is looking effortlessly polished while staying comfortable for three hours outdoors in July.

For Women

Sundresses and maxi dresses dominate. In particular, light fabrics like linen, cotton, and chiffon work best. Similarly, floral prints, pastels, and bold patterns all have their place. As an alternative, jumpsuits offer a contemporary option. Here are a few specific notes:

• Dresses: Midi and maxi lengths are most common. Sundresses work for the more casual feel.
• Fabrics: Linen, cotton, silk. Avoid anything too heavy or structured.
• Shoes: Wedges are the sweet spot between style and practicality. Block heels work. Flats and espadrilles are perfectly acceptable. Stilettos sink into grass.
• Hats: Wide-brim sun hats are both functional and expected. This is your moment to go bold.
• Accessories: Statement sunglasses, raffia or straw bags, and minimal jewelry that won’t catch the heat.

For Men

Smart casual with a summer twist works best. Obviously, the polo shirt’s namesake sport makes it an appropriate choice, but button-downs in linen work equally well. Here are the key elements:

• Shirts: Linen button-downs, quality polo shirts, lightweight blazers if you want to elevate
• Pants: Chinos, tailored shorts, or well-fitted trousers. White or khaki are classics. Dark denim can work but risks overheating.
• Shoes: Loafers, boat shoes, suede bucks. No sneakers. No flip-flops.
• Optional: A Panama hat for sun protection and sartorial points

The Divot Stomp Factor

At halftime, spectators are invited onto the field to participate in the divot stomp. Specifically, this tradition involves walking the field and using your foot to push back the clumps of grass (divots) that the horses tear up during play. As a result, it maintains the field while giving everyone a reason to mingle.

Your shoes will touch grass and possibly mud. Consequently, this is why wedges beat stilettos and why experienced polo-goers often bring a spare pair of flats in their bag.

The Hamptons Polo Scene

Polo Hamptons represents one piece of a larger polo ecosystem that’s expanded significantly in recent years. Therefore, understanding the landscape helps you plan beyond a single event.

Hamptons Polo Club

The Hamptons Polo Club in Water Mill has emerged as the East End’s equestrian centerpiece. Currently, with five tournament fields, two stick-and-ball practice areas, stabling for 70+ horses, and backing from polo legend Mariano Aguerre, it operates as the largest summer polo club in the United States.

The club formed in 2022 through a merger of the historic Bridgehampton and Southampton polo operations. As a result, it now hosts matches from beginner to 16-goal high-goal level throughout the season, including two USPA national tournaments: the Continental Cup and the Monty Waterbury.

Location: 206 Millstone Road, Water Mill, NY

Website: hamptonspoloclub.com

Notable Players

Hamptons polo regularly attracts world-class talent. Here are a few names worth knowing:

• Nacho Figueras: The Argentine star who became polo’s global ambassador through his Ralph Lauren partnership. Notably, he plays in the Hamptons regularly and has been doing so since joining Peter Brant’s White Birch team in the late 1990s. Often called the “David Beckham of polo,” Figueras has done more to mainstream the sport than perhaps any other player.
• Mariano Aguerre: A legendary 10-goal player and key partner in the Hamptons Polo Club ownership group. Significantly, his involvement signals serious institutional commitment to high-goal polo in the region.
• Martin Pepa: A fixture at Hamptons polo events who remains a regular competitor at Bridgehampton matches.

Teams to Watch

Hamptons polo features several prominent teams worth following:

• Equuleus: Based in Water Mill and Wellington, this team is consistently competitive at high-goal levels
• A Polo Team: Owned by Ikey Ashkenazy, it represents another strong presence in the region
• Black Watch: The Ralph Lauren-affiliated team that’s captained by Nacho Figueras
• La Onda: The private team of Mark Van Lith, one of the Hamptons Polo Club owners

A Brief History of Polo in the Hamptons

The Early Days (1897-1912)

Polo first arrived on the East End in 1897, when a group including Peter and Robert Collier, George Pullman Jr., and several others established the Southampton Polo Club. Before this, these founders had been playing at Monmouth County Polo Club in New Jersey. Eventually, they brought their ponies and mallets out East to establish what would become a lasting tradition.

Unfortunately, the Southampton Polo Association folded in 1912, leaving the region without competitive polo for decades.

The Modern Revival (1995-Present)

The modern era began in 1995 when Peter Brant and Neil Hirsch founded the Bridgehampton Polo Club. Both were prominent patrons of the sport who wanted a venue to play during Hamptons summers while also introducing high-goal polo to new audiences.

During its early years, Bridgehampton brought 20-goal polo and attracted global talent. As a result, the club became intertwined with Hamptons social life, drawing celebrities and socialites alongside genuine polo enthusiasts. However, real estate complications led to periods of uncertainty. Finally, the 2022 formation of the Hamptons Polo Club consolidated resources and reopened serious competition.

Today, polo in the Hamptons operates at multiple levels. For spectators, social events like Polo Hamptons offer accessible entry points. Meanwhile, the Hamptons Polo Club runs serious competition from low-goal through 16-goal high-goal. Additionally, private matches and charity events fill out the calendar throughout the season.

Learn to Play Polo

Watching polo sparks a predictable question: can I try this? Surprisingly, the answer is yes.

The Hamptons Polo Club launched a program specifically targeting beginners and amateurs. In fact, lessons cover everything from basic horsemanship through actual game play. According to club founding member Ali Bailey, entry costs are comparable to tennis or surfing lessons in the Hamptons and may actually be cheaper than golf.

What you need: jeans and hard-soled shoes. Importantly, the club provides horses, mallets, and safety equipment. No prior riding experience is required, although some basics certainly help.

The progression path runs from introductory lessons to beginner chukkers (practice games) held three days per week during summer. For those who catch the bug, the club subsequently offers pathways into amateur competition.

For lesson inquiries: Contact the Hamptons Polo Club at [email protected]

Polo Terminology

Knowing the vocabulary helps you follow the action and, equally important, sound like you belong at the after-party.

Celebrity Sightings

Polo Hamptons doubles as a society event, and naturally the guest list reflects that. Most notably, Christie Brinkley has become synonymous with the event, regularly serving as host or featured guest and gracing the cover of Social Life Magazine in connection with polo season.

In addition, past events have drawn Anne Hathaway, Rachel Zoe, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Kim Cattrall, Woody Harrelson, members of the Real Housewives of New York cast, and various fashion industry figures. Meanwhile, Nacho Figueras, who essentially invented the polo-player-as-celebrity category, appears regularly.

Overall, the atmosphere encourages seeing and being seen. Professional photographers work the crowd while social media content flows freely. For many attendees, the match itself is secondary to the networking opportunity.

Planning Your Polo Weekend

Polo Hamptons works best as part of a larger weekend itinerary. Below is how to maximize the experience.

Before the Match

• Arrive early: Gates open at 4pm, but showing up right on time means missing the prime socializing window before the match begins.
• Pre-party options: Some years feature private pre-parties at nearby estates. Therefore, watch Social Life Magazine and local society coverage for announcements.
• Eat beforehand: Although hors d’oeuvres are provided, they won’t constitute dinner. Have a late lunch before arriving.

During the Match

• Watch at least one chukker: Even if you’re there for the scene, actually watching polo helps you appreciate what makes it compelling.
• Join the divot stomp: This halftime ritual is non-negotiable because it’s where conversations happen.
• Stay hydrated: July heat plus open bar requires a deliberate water strategy.

After the Match

• Dinner reservations: Book in advance since the Hamptons restaurant scene on summer Saturday nights doesn’t accommodate walk-ins easily. See our guide to celebrity restaurants in the Hamptons for options.
• Transportation: Uber surge pricing kicks in as events end. Consequently, consider scheduling a pickup or arranging a car service.

Mark Your Calendar

Polo Hamptons 2026 tickets go on sale December 1, 2025. Given the event’s track record of selling out by July 10 for ten consecutive years, the smart move is buying tickets the moment they’re available. Accordingly, set a reminder for December 1.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Polo Hamptons 2026?

Polo Hamptons 2026 takes place on Saturday, July 18 and Saturda,y, July 25, from 4 pm to 7 pm at 900 Lumber Lane in Bridgehampton, NY.

How much are Polo Hamptons tickets?

Ticket prices typically range from approximately $250-350 for general admission. Cabanas with tables for 10 guests start around $3,500. Only 900 tickets are available per event date, and the event has sold out by July 10 for ten consecutive years.

What should I wear to polo in the Hamptons?

For women: sundresses, maxi dresses, or jumpsuits in light fabrics with wedges or flats. For men: linen blazers, polo shirts, chinos or tailored shorts with loafers. Choose comfortable shoes for grass and the halftime divot stomp. Hats and sunglasses are encouraged.

Where is polo played in the Hamptons?

The main venues are Polo Hamptons at 900 Lumber Lane in Bridgehampton and the Hamptons Polo Club at 206 Millstone Road in Water Mill. The Hamptons Polo Club is the largest summer polo club in the United States with five tournament fields.

What celebrities attend polo in the Hamptons?

Regular attendees include Christie Brinkley (who often hosts), Nacho Figueras (the face of Ralph Lauren polo), and various socialites. Past events have drawn Anne Hathaway, Rachel Zoe, Real Housewives cast members, and other celebrities.

Can I learn to play polo in the Hamptons?

Yes. The Hamptons Polo Club offers polo lessons for beginners through advanced players. Lessons are reportedly similar in cost to tennis or surfing lessons, and the club provides horses and equipment. No prior riding experience is required.

What is the divot stomp at polo?

The divot stomp is a halftime tradition where spectators walk onto the field to replace divots (clumps of grass) torn up by the horses’ hooves. It helps maintain the field and is a social highlight where guests mingle. Wear comfortable flat or wedge shoes to participate.

Final Thoughts

Polo Hamptons offers something increasingly rare: an event that delivers on its promise. Once you understand what’s happening, the sport is genuinely exciting. Likewise, the social scene is genuinely glamorous and the setting is genuinely beautiful.

With only 900 tickets per date and a decade-long track record of selling out by July 10, the barrier to entry is simply acting early. Remember, tickets go on sale December 1, 2025. Then book your weekend accommodations, plan your outfit, and show up ready to enjoy three hours where the sport of kings meets Hamptons summer at its peak.

For more insider guides to the Hamptons social season, explore our celebrity sightings guide, celebrity homes directory, and Q3 2025 real estate market report.