One of South Florida’s signature equestrian events is delivering more than sport.
A new report commissioned by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission found the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival generated an estimated $538.2 million in economic impact. The 13-week competition, held January through March, drew 31,000 competitors and 300,000 spectators.
The study, prepared by economists William B. Stronge and Rupert Rhodd, reported that the festival supported 4,869 jobs and produced $153.9 million in labor earnings.
“WEF is the largest annual equestrian competition in the world, with thousands of horses from over 42 countries and all 50 U.S. states,” the authors wrote, noting that nonresident spending injects “new money” into the economy.
Horse-related expenses by riders, owners and trainers accounted for 63% of the impact – $338.6 million – covering stabling, feed, training and transport. That figure marked a 13% increase from last year. The remaining 37% came from lodging, dining, shopping and transportation by visitors.
The festival generated 210,911 paid room nights for the county’s hotels. Spectator spending alone supported 681 jobs, whileparticipant tourism created 1,029 jobs across industries. Surveys showed strong loyalty, with 83% rating their experience “very enjoyable.”
Compared with other Florida sporting events, WEF’s impact exceeded the Miami Grand Prix ($505 million), Major League Baseball spring training ($79 million) and the Cognizant Classic golf tournament ($40 million).
Produced by Wellington International at the Palm BeachInternational Equestrian Center, the festival is led by CEO Murray Kessler.
“Our priority is to make this the very best experience possible, and that starts with horse sport,” he said.
The next Winter Equestrian Festival will run Dec. 31, 2025, through March 29, 2026, featuring more than $16 million in prize money.
