Heading to Wellington for equestrian season and wondering how to make it all work for you and your horses? You are not alone. Each winter, riders, owners, trainers, and families from around the world land in Palm Beach County to compete, train, and live near the action. This guide breaks down the timing, housing, stabling, paperwork, travel, budgeting, and planning steps so your move feels smooth and stress smart. Let’s dive in.

Season at a glance

Wellington’s equestrian season centers on elite show jumping, hunter and jumper, and polo in the winter months. The busiest stretch runs mid January through March or early April, with weekly competition circuits that drive demand for housing and services. The flagship series is the Winter Equestrian Festival, and major competitions also run under the HITS show circuits.

During peak weeks, short term rentals and hotels fill quickly, and local services book out. Expect heavier traffic and event parking near the showgrounds. If daily access matters, look for housing that shortens your commute.

Housing options for people and horses

You will see several housing paths in Wellington, from short term furnished rentals to acreage estates with barns. The right choice depends on how long you stay, whether you are competing every week, and how many horses and people are in your program.

Short term rentals

Seasonal competitors commonly secure 2 to 4 month leases, often furnished and close to the showgrounds. Book well ahead for peak weeks, since demand spikes in January through March. Confirm lease language on trailer parking, guest occupancy, and any rules about animals on site.

Equestrian homes and acreage

If you prefer to keep horses at home, look for properties with safe barn structures, good drainage, and room for turnout. Review the number and size of stalls, wash racks, tack and feed rooms, ventilation, fly control, and storage for hay and shavings. Check arena footing, irrigation, and maintenance schedules, and make sure driveways allow a truck and trailer to turn and park safely.

Neighborhoods vary across Wellington, from purpose built equestrian areas to suburban communities with homeowners associations. Before committing, review local zoning, HOA covenants, and any limits on trailers or temporary stalls. The Village of Wellington site is a good starting point for ordinances and services.

Boarding or showground stalls

Many riders board at a professional stable near the showgrounds or rent stalls directly at the venue. If you plan to stable on site, reserve early through the organizer’s exhibitor pages and confirm parking and move in policies posted by the Winter Equestrian Festival and HITS exhibitor resources. If boarding privately, ask for a written board agreement that details care, turnout, feed, and transport.

Proximity tradeoffs

Being close to the showgrounds reduces your daily drive and can save time for schooling and vet or farrier visits. Homes farther out may offer more acreage or lower costs, but the commute can be longer and event traffic can add time. Choose based on your schedule, program size, and budget.

Logistics for moving horses

Relocating with horses adds a few extra steps. Plan early to keep paperwork, bookings, and transport aligned with your first show week.

Health paperwork and rules

Most competition venues and interstate travel require health documentation. Common items include a current negative Coggins and a recent Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. Vaccination and biosecurity protocols are often outlined by show organizers. For current movement rules and animal health guidance, review the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Animal Industry and USDA APHIS pages, then confirm specifics with your veterinarian and the show secretary.

Haulers and scheduling

Book experienced haulers well ahead for arrival and departure, as well as week to week moves if you plan to ship in and out. Ask about insurance, night travel, layovers, and familiarity with showgrounds procedures. Keep backup options in case a horse needs a schedule change or urgent transport.

Vet, farrier, and supply coordination

Wellington has strong sport horse veterinary services and farriers who work show schedules. High season is busy, so pre book routine care, shoeing, and bodywork where needed. Set up feed and bedding deliveries and plan for secure storage if you are keeping horses at a private property.

Family and daily life

Relocation is easier when you map out travel, schools, and day to day errands before you arrive.

Airports and travel

The closest major airport is Palm Beach International Airport, which is convenient for most arrivals and departures. Fort Lauderdale and Miami can be useful for certain airlines and international routes. Build in extra time for ground transfers during show days.

Schools and childcare

If you have school age children, align your seasonal stay with local calendars and any distance learning or homeschool plans. The School District of Palm Beach County provides public school information, calendars, and enrollment resources through its site at palmbeachschools.org. Private school options may require earlier inquiries for temporary enrollment.

Utilities and property setup

Confirm whether a property uses municipal water or well, sewer or septic, and what solid waste or compost options exist. These details affect daily care for horses and people, along with long term suitability if you plan to return each winter.

Risk and insurance essentials

Good coverage and a simple emergency plan can protect you, your property, and your horses.

Insurance checklist

Review homeowner or farm policies for barn structures, fencing, and liability. Many competitive owners also carry horse mortality and major medical insurance. Ensure your truck and trailer insurance is current and matches how you use the vehicles.

Hurricane and flood readiness

Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, so most of equestrian season falls outside that window. If you plan to stay late spring or maintain a year round base, keep an evacuation plan for horses and know local emergency resources through Palm Beach County Emergency Management. For flood considerations and insurance decisions, check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and ask your insurer about coverage.

Costs, timeline, and booking strategy

Season success usually comes down to early planning. A clear budget and a six to twelve month timeline help you secure the best options.

When to start

Aim to book housing, boarding or show stalls, haulers, vets, farriers, and trainers 6 to 12 months before peak season. Popular weeks and close in properties go first. Keep a calendar of deposit deadlines and cancellation policies for each vendor.

Budget categories to expect

• Housing or rent for 2 to 4 months
• Boarding or showground stabling and related fees
• Competition entries, memberships, and parking passes
• Hauling, routine vet and farrier care, and feed or bedding
• Insurance for property, horses, and vehicles
• Travel, fuel, and daily living costs

Practical planning checklist

• Housing: finalize lease dates that match show weeks, confirm trailer parking, and review any HOA rules on animals.
• Stabling: reserve showground stalls early or sign a boarding contract that details care, turnout, and transport.
• Horse paperwork: maintain current Coggins, CVI, and required vaccinations, with digital and paper copies.
• Transportation: schedule haulers for arrival, departure, and any mid season moves; confirm insurance.
• Service providers: pre book vet, farrier, physiotherapist, and any support staff.
• Insurance: review homeowner or farm liability, horse mortality and medical, plus vehicle and trailer coverage.
• Emergency prep: outline an evacuation plan, keep contact lists updated, and stock essentials for horses.
• Local rules: check village or county guidelines for temporary structures, signage, or additional stalls.

How we can help you relocate

Moving to Wellington for season is part real estate and part logistics. You deserve a local guide who knows Palm Beach County, understands seasonal timing, and brings a steady, process driven approach. Our team offers buyer representation and relocation support across Wellington and the surrounding communities, with clear communication and resources tailored to your goals.

If you are weighing a short term rental versus a purchase, want to compare proximity tradeoffs, or need an introduction to trusted local services, we are here to make the process simpler. Connect with The Silver Team for local guidance and a plan that fits your timeline and budget.

FAQs

When is Wellington equestrian season and peak timing?

• Peak competition typically runs mid winter through early spring, with the busiest weeks from mid January to March or early April. Check current calendars with the Winter Equestrian Festival and HITS.

Should I rent or buy for a first Wellington season?

• Renting for 2 to 4 months is common for first time competitors. If you plan to return each winter or relocate longer term, buying can make sense depending on budget and lifestyle.

Can I keep horses at a seasonal rental in Wellington?

• Only if the property has suitable facilities and local rules allow it. Always confirm lease terms, HOA rules, and any village or county requirements in writing.

What health documents do my horses need for Florida shows?

• Expect a current negative Coggins and a recent health certificate, plus any vaccinations required by event organizers. Verify details with your vet, FDACS Animal Industry, and USDA APHIS.

How early should I book haulers, vets, and farriers in Wellington?

• Reserve as early as possible, ideally 6 to 12 months ahead for peak season. High demand means many providers are fully booked well before January.

What should I know about hurricane and flood risk near Wellington?

• Equestrian season falls mostly outside hurricane season, but it is smart to have an evacuation plan and review coverage. Use Palm Beach County Emergency Management and the FEMA Flood Map Service Center for planning guidance.