April 23 - April 25
Let’s be honest. When you think of “gay sports,” your mind probably goes straight to drag kickball. Or that one time you tried CrossFit to impress a guy named Chad. However, the International Gay Polo Tournament is here to elevate expectations. Literally and figuratively.
Held in West Palm Beach, about an hour north of Fort Lauderdale, this is not your average dusty field day. Instead, the event takes place at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, one of the premier polo venues in the world. It’s polished. It’s posh. And, for one weekend a year, it fills with unapologetic queer joy.
At its heart, the tournament focuses on athletic excellence. Players from the Gay Polo League (GPL) showcase real skill, strategy, and intensity. These athletes are not just posing on ponies. At the same time, the event remains welcoming to newcomers. You don’t need to know a chukka from a mallet to enjoy the day. In fact, many people come for the vibes alone.
Now, let’s talk about the real draw. The tailgating.
This is not chips and dip in the back of a pickup truck. Instead, guests arrive early to build elaborate, themed tailgates. Décor is involved. As a result, planning is required. Some setups likely cost more than a monthly rent check. Consequently, the grounds feel more like a social festival than a sporting event.
Meanwhile, fashion plays a starring role. Attendees blend classic Palm Beach polish with playful queer flair. Linen suits appear. Fascinators make an entrance. Additionally, pastels show up in force. The mood stays elegant but relaxed. It’s social, celebratory, and confidently extra.
Because players and spectators travel from across the country, the tournament doubles as a major social moment. Friends reconnect. Meanwhile, new connections form. Overall, community runs through every part of the weekend.
Importantly, the International Gay Polo Tournament reflects the GPL’s mission. It promotes inclusion and visibility in a traditionally exclusive sport. By doing so, the event helps redefine who belongs on the field.
Ultimately, whether you come for the competition, the champagne-soaked people-watching, or the spectacle itself, the International Gay Polo Tournament delivers. It’s polished without being pretentious. At the same time, it’s social without being overwhelming. For that reason, it remains well worth the trip.