The Surprising Thrill of Polo in the High Desert

When you think of Santa Fe, you likely picture ancient adobes, vibrant art galleries, and the scent of roasting green chile. But nestled just south of the city lies another world, one of thundering hooves, incredible athleticism, and stylish Sunday afternoons: The Santa Fe Polo Club. For decades, this beautiful venue has brought the "Sport of Kings" to the City Different, creating a unique social and sporting tradition that offers a surprising and accessible escape from the everyday.

Forget any preconceived notions of polo as a stuffy, exclusive affair. Here in Santa Fe, it’s a welcoming and casual event where the community gathers to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the heart-pounding excitement of the game. A day at the polo club is one of the most memorable and unique ways to spend a summer afternoon in New Mexico.

Why It's a Must-Do Experience

A polo match is a full-sensory experience. It’s the thrill of watching world-class players and their magnificent horses charge down the massive field, the crack of the mallet hitting the ball, and the collective gasp from the crowd as a goal is scored. It is both elegant and intensely competitive.

The experience isn't just on the field; it's on the sidelines, too. Tailgating is not only allowed but encouraged, making it the ultimate high-desert picnic. Spectators line the field with their cars, setting up chairs, tables, and elaborate spreads. At halftime, you’ll be invited onto the field to participate in the traditional "divot stomp," a fun ritual where you help pat down the turf kicked up by the horses. It’s a social, engaging, and utterly unique Santa Fe outing. They do charge $25 a car for entry so load up the car with your family and friends.

The 2025 Summer Polo Schedule

The main season runs from June through September, with matches typically held on Sunday afternoons. Gates open at 1:00 PM and matches begin at 2:00 PM.

• June 8: Land Rover Santa Fe Open
• June 22: The Summer Solstice Cup
• July 6: The Red, White, and Blue Cup (Holiday Weekend)
• July 20: The Sangre de Cristo Cup
• August 3: El Rancho de los Garcia's Women's Tournament
• August 17: The Santa Fe Open
• September 1: Labor Day Invitational
• September 14: The Final Chukker Cup

5 Things Most People Don't Know About Santa Fe Polo

1. The Field is a Colossal Size. A regulation polo field is 300 yards by 160 yards, covering nearly ten acres. That’s roughly the size of nine football fields combined, making it the largest field in organized sports.
2. Players Have Handicaps, Like in Golf. Every player is rated on a scale from -2 to 10 goals. The team's total handicap is calculated, and the team with the lower rating is awarded the difference in goals before the match even begins, ensuring a competitive game.
3. The "Ponies" are Elite Equine Athletes. Though they're called "polo ponies," they are full-sized, highly trained thoroughbreds. Each rider brings a "string" of 4 to 6 horses for a single match, swapping for a fresh mount after each chukker (period) to keep the pace of the game incredibly fast.
4. The Divot Stomp Isn't Just for Show. While it’s a great social tradition, stomping the divots is crucial for player and horse safety. It repairs the turf, ensuring a level and safe playing surface for the second half of the match.
5. You Can Learn to Play Here. The club isn't just for pros. The Santa Fe Polo Club offers lessons and a welcoming "beginner's league" for those who want to try the sport for themselves, making it one of the more accessible polo clubs in the country.

To make your Sunday polo outing perfect, having the right gear for a comfortable and stylish tailgate is key. From portable chairs and tables to the perfect picnic basket, being prepared makes all the difference. For our top picks, check out the Santa Fe Insiders tested products to elevate your sideline experience.