Images: Adelaide Polo Classic (supplied)
The Adelaide Polo Classic returns this December, set to deliver the city’s most glamorous outdoor celebration. From a relaxed day out with friends to a refined corporate gathering or a champagne-fuelled VIP affair, Ellis Park/Tampawardli will once again transform into a summer playground for all.
The scene is pure indulgence. The gallop of hooves across the field, a glass of Veuve Clicquot in hand, and an atmosphere alive with fashion, food, and music. It’s Adelaide’s ultimate end-of-year celebration, and a modern ode to the centuries-old “sport of kings.”
Event Director Luke Schapel says this diversity is what makes the Polo Classic such a drawcard, especially for end-of-year celebrations.
“I think people have grown tired of the same old end-of-year functions in restaurants or private dining rooms,” he explains.
“Businesses are looking for something fresh, outdoors, and full of atmosphere. That’s exactly what polo offers – a chance to celebrate in style with an unforgettable backdrop.”
And if you’re a polo first-timer, expect to be surprised. “It’s probably not what you expect – and that’s the whole point,” says Schapel.
“It’s outdoors, it’s fashion, it’s music, it’s incredible hospitality, and then you get this completely new sporting experience. Up close, polo is spectacular, the speed and power of the game just metres away creates a real energy.”
Across the afternoon, the action shifts between the field and the crowd. Guests are invited onto the pitch at half-time for the traditional divot stomp (stilettos with caution) before the energy builds toward the Dusk Dance Party, where DJs take over the main stage and the celebrations spill into the night.
So, what kind of day do you want to have? Here are your options.
The Stables
$170pp
The Stables is the lively, social precinct where DJs, drinks and food come together in a playful atmosphere. Perfect for groups of friends looking for an easy-going day in the sun, with cafe-style seating, umbrellas, a four-hour beverage package and a food voucher included.
VIP Marquee
$450pp
For those who love a little luxury, the VIP Marquee delivers it all. Positioned at the centre of the field with uninterrupted views, it offers elevated canapés, lounge-style seating, and free-flowing Veuve Clicquot, spirits, wine and beer. It’s the only marquee with exclusive access to mingle with the players, and the champagne-soaked afternoon rolls straight into the afterparty.
Polo Club High Tables
$2,400 for 8 guests
A chic setting for small businesses or social groups. These high tables (expandable to 10) come with curated platters by Head Chef Sam Worrall-Thompson, a four-hour beverage package, and direct access to both the polo field and the entertainment marquee – ideal for groups wanting to mix social with style.
Private Marquees
From 25 guests
The prestige option for corporate entertaining. These 40m² marquees offer full service with dedicated staff, private bar, premium catering and custom styling. Positioned fieldside for uninterrupted views, they create a tailored and intimate space to impress clients or reward staff in unforgettable fashion.
This year’s hospitality program has been elevated to “new heights” through partnerships with Veuve Clicquot and Burnside Village, media partners with Glam Adelaide, and the continued support of the Adelaide Economic Development Agency.
“These collaborations show just how important the Polo Classic is becoming in Adelaide’s social and corporate calendar,” adds Schapel.
The Adelaide Polo Classic is slated for Friday, December 12. With more than seventy five per cent of Polo Club Tables and Private Marquees already snapped up, now’s the time to choose your own summer adventure. From champagne luxury to DJs at dusk, the Polo Classic is Adelaide’s ultimate end-of-year celebration. Champagne in hand, sun on your skin, and the thunder of horses across the field, it’s hard not to get excited.
Adelaide Polo Classic has been donating $200 from each table sold in September to the Jodi Lee Bowel Cancer Foundation
Adelaide Polo Classic packages
When: December 12th
Where: Ellis Park / Tampawardli, Adelaide
For more info and to browse packages, click here.
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