Opening Day at San Diego Polo

It’s that time of year again! Break out the clean, colorful, and elegant preppy attire for the 30th Anniversary Opening Day of Polo Celebration at San Diego Polo, benefiting the San Diego Film Foundation! The gates will begin to open at 12:30pm Sunday, June 5th. Around 4,500 spectators are estimated to attend the event, and VIP Tables are already sold out, so be sure to purchase your tickets for Opening Day now on the San Diego Polo website. 

International and local players will stomp the field for a competitive and lively match at 1:00pm and 3:00pm. Trophies will be presented at 4:30, but that’s not all! The highly anticipated 7th Chukker After Party will bring us into the evening from 5:00 to 7:00pm. 

Polo matches are a great outing for every family, but make sure you have the proper attire! Don’t forget your hat at home. Wide-brimmed straw hats are all the rage among the polo women, as well as fedoras for men. Ladies, think about your shoe choice wisely as divot stomping will go on in between the matches. When deciding ways to add a little prep to your step espadrilles, chunky heels, wedges, or flat sandals are highly recommended, whereas stilettos may not be the best choice for the event. 

Because the event takes place in beautiful sunny San Diego, the temperature may be a bit on the warm side. In this case, wear fabrics that are breathable such as linens--but they don’t need to be boring! Bold colors and patterns are what make the polo crowd so special. Kate Spade, Lilly Pulitzer, and Vineyard Vines are wonderful places to find a bit of inspiration when picking your pieces. Not into colors? White is a classy choice as well, however nothing too sheer.

For gentlemen, just about everything found in the polo section of Ralph Lauren will be perfect for the match. Colored fit pants work well with a patterned button up, and personally I am a huge fan and believer of the bowtie. Brooks Brothers is the perfect place to look for bright and vivid bowties to add an extra pizazz to your attire. Everyone attending should have fun while dressing up and accessorizing their look by choosing pieces that compliment their game day ensemble. Currently trending for women are oversized mirrored lenses or embellished sunglasses! They can make anyone look like a movie star while watching the match. Watches and handkerchiefs are a great way to stand out on the field for men. It may be smart to pack a shawl or cute cardigan for the evening hours of dancing at the 7th Chukker After Party as the sun begins to set and the summer air cools off. 

Outside food and beverages will not be allowed inside of the match, however there will be tasty cuisine for purchase and lavishing refreshments to quench your thirst. Don’t forget to bring the entire family, including the young ones and your furry family member! Dogs are allowed to join game day action on the tailgating side of the field only and must be on a leash. Chairs will be provided in shaded and sunny seating areas on the west side of the field, therefore if you plan to spend the event on the east tailgating side, you will want to bring your own chairs. 

Your polo experience doesn’t have to stop after opening day! Games will be played throughout the summer and up until late October! Many other events are being held at the field such as Saturday Games where guest are able to bring friends and family to watch polo practice. However keep in mind that the polo practice is not a structured event, meaning that there will not be assigned seats, concessions, or sound. However, it is a great chance to view the upcoming talent in the polo league. Clubhouse + Bar will be going on every Thursday from 5-9pm for guests and players to drink at the Polo Clubhouse. Yoga on the Grass will take place every other Saturday and is free to members and players! If you are not a member, don’t fret; it is only a $10 fee to drop in!