
Did you know polo is one of the oldest known sports? It's played on horseback, and the game involves two opposing teams, each one attempts to hit a ball through the opposing team's goal with a wooden mallet. It's called "The Sport of Kings" and is highly entertaining to play and watch. Matches are around two hours long, and the best part is most events are accompanied by food, activities, live music, and events.
Polo is especially a big deal around Sarasota. While most of the country is covered in snow, polo season kicks off in sunny Florida in the middle of winter. Our real estate agents highly recommend catching a match if you're in town. Below is everything you need to know to plan ahead:
The Sarasota Polo Club
Sarasota polo matches are hosted by the Sarasota Polo Club. Over 50,000 spectators attend these matches every season, which runs from the end of December through early spring. The club itself has been around for 32 seasons and has more than 65 playing members. The club practices on 170 manicured acres, and matches take place on a 300 x 160-yard field located at the Sarasota Polo Club in Lakewood Ranch, which is just 30 minutes from Siesta Key Beach and 30 minutes from the Sarasota airport. If you're interested in playing polo yourself, the club offers lessons all year long.
Sunday Polo
Sunday Polo season starts December 31 and runs through April 7, and every match is open to the public. Doors open at 10 am, and a variety of tickets are available including general admission, reserved tailgating, reserved midfield, premium seating, and VIP midfield boxes. Well-behaved dogs are permitted. In addition to the exciting match, you can enjoy a kickoff parade, a live national anthem, half-time music, entertainment, and plenty of great food and drinks. You'll also notice different themes throughout the weeks. After the match, don't forget to schedule a tour of one of these nearby Sarasota homes for sale.
Thursday Sunset Polo Happy Hour
There is an opportunity to watch polo matches on Thursday evenings too. Thursday Sunset Polo Happy Hour is open to the public, and it takes place just a short commute from some of our favorite Bradenton homes for sale. These events run from March 14 through April 11. Many consider this to be the most unique after-work party in Lakewood Ranch. Gates open at 5 pm, and the event starts at 5:30, and spectators can enjoy a beautiful sunset as a backdrop while watching the match. Afterward, you can stick around for food and live music throughout the evening.
Tickets to both events can be purchased online, and children 12 and under can receive free general admission.
Having the opportunity to see this exciting sport live is another huge benefit of living in beautiful Sarasota, Florida. Contact us today to start your home search.