Winter Equestrian Festival Generates $607.3 Million for Palm Beach County

The 2026 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) generated $607.3 million in economic impact for Palm Beach County through spending by equestrians and visitors, according to a new economic impact study. This represents a 13% increase from 2025 and brings the total impact over the last three years to $1.5 billion.

The 13-week competition, held at Wellington International, hosts riders, owners, trainers, and visitors from across the United States and globally. These participants and visitors directly spent $362.8 million, supporting 5,586 jobs and generating $174.9 million in labor earnings for the county.

Spending related to horses constituted the largest portion of WEF's economic contribution. Nonresident participants directly spent $230.7 million on stabling, feed, training, farrier and veterinary services, and other equestrian needs. This horse-related spending saw a 12.3% increase from 2025.

Tourism spending by participants and spectators also significantly boosted the local economy. Nonresident participants spent $66.3 million on lodging, dining, entertainment, shopping, and transportation. In total, the WEF's economic impact reached $607.3 million in 2026, up from $536.2 million the previous year.