A post-event analysis of the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) revealed that the 13-week competition, held from January through March, contributed $538.2 million to the economy of Palm Beach County. The study, commissioned by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, marks a 33 percent rise compared to the $403.6 million impact recorded in 2024, highlighting the festival’s growing significance in both equestrian sports and regional economic development. n nEach year, WEF draws approximately 31,000 participants from over 50 nations and every U.S. state, solidifying its status as a premier international horse show. Murray Kessler, CEO of Wellington International, emphasized the event’s central role in the local economy, stating, “We are by far the No. 1 sport in Palm Beach County, and a lot of people count on our continued success. Our priority is to make this the very best experience possible — and that starts with horse sport.” n nKey outcomes from the 2025 report include a $134.6 million increase in total economic output, representing a substantial acceleration from the previous year’s 14 percent growth. The event supported 4,869 jobs across various sectors—an increase of 28 percent from 2024—and generated $153.9 million in labor income, with workers earning an average of $31,690 annually, up 30 percent from the prior year. n nThe lodging sector saw 210,911 paid room nights, a 30 percent jump from 2024. Horse-related spending contributed $338.68 million to the GDP, accounting for 63 percent of the total impact, while visitor expenditures on tourism added $109 million, or 37 percent. Spectator spending alone surged to $88 million in local GDP, a dramatic rise from $8 million the previous year. n nAs one of the world’s largest recurring equestrian events, WEF plays a vital role in Palm Beach County’s sports tourism sector. With record-breaking economic contributions and rising participation, Wellington International plans to further elevate the experience during WEF 2026, scheduled from December 31 to March 29. The upcoming edition will feature over $16 million in prize money and include major upgrades to facilities and guest amenities, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a global hub for equestrian competition. n
— news from Town-Crier Newspaper
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Study: 2025 WEF Delivered $538.2 Million In Economic Impact
In a report conducted after the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival, $538.2 million in economic impact was cited for Palm Beach County as a result of the 13-week event running January through March. WEF attracts 31,000 competitors from more than 50 countries and all 50 states to Palm Beach County each year. n nThe report was prepared for the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. The findings showed a 33 percent increase from the 2024 impact of $403.6 million, reinforcing WEF as a marquee event in the equestrian realm and a major economic driver for Palm Beach County. n n“We are by far the No. 1 sport in Palm Beach County, and a lot of people count on our continued success. Our priority is to make this the very best experience possible — and that starts with horse sport,” said Murray Kessler, CEO of Wellington International. n nKey figures from the 2025 report include: n nIncrease in Total Economic Impact: $134.6 million brought to Palm Beach County’s GDP, a 33 percent growth rate from the 2024 WEF Economic Impact Report. More than doubled last year’s 14 percent growth from 2023. n nJob Creation: 4,869 jobs were created across multiple industries, a 28 percent increase from 2024. n nLabor Earnings: A total of $153.9 million in labor earnings was generated throughout the economy with employees earning an average wage of $31,690, a 30 percent increase from the previous year. n nLodging Industry: WEF 2025 generated 210,911 paid room nights, a 30 percent increase from 2024. n nTotal Horse Expenditures: The $338.68 million GDP growth (a 13 percent increase from WEF 2024) accounts for 63 percent of the total GDP impact. n nParticipant & Spectator Tourism Expenditures: Equivalent to $109 million and accounting for 37 percent of the total GDP impact. n nSpectator Impact: Combined spectator expenditure generated $88 million in local GDP, up dramatically from last year’s $8 million. n nThe Winter Equestrian Festival is not only one of the largest annual equestrian competitions in the world but also a cornerstone of Palm Beach County’s sports tourism economy. With participation on the rise, and economic impact at record levels, Wellington International remains committed to raising the bar. n nWEF 2026, scheduled for Dec. 31 through March 29, will feature more than $16 million in prize money and mark the next phase of Wellington International’s long-term vision. Significant venue upgrades and world-class amenities are planned to enhance the experience for riders, spectators and sponsors alike. These investments ensure that Wellington continues to set the global standard as the premier destination for horse sport for generations to come.