How to Prepare for Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic

If you’re a long time follower of the blog then you know that I love the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic! I’ve been going for several years now and it is absolutely one of my favorite social events all year. There’s just something special about seeing so many beautiful people dressed up (and I mean dressed to the nine’s, ok!) and congregating amongst each other and just having a good ‘ol time.

I think I really love the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic because one, I’m a little bougie….and I’m not scared to admit that, lol. Let’s keep it real, we are literally watching a polo match! Plus it’s outside and it’s during the summer and you can picnic! It’s just the cutest event to grab a bunch of friends and attend together and sip the finest champagne all afternoon.

Since I’ve been going to the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic for a few years now, I would say that I’ve picked up some tips and tricks along the way. With this being one of the most highly anticipated events of year, it comes with a lot of buzz and hype. With that usually comes a lot of questions and people usually don’t know how to best to prepare for the event to have the best time possible. In this post I’m going to share with you some easy steps to take to ensure that you are prepared and have the best time of your life.

Let’s jump right into it!

First thing is first, If you can, don’t leave from NYC.

The reason I recommend this is because you will have to take a ferry from downtown NYC extremely early and you will also have to wait in a pretty substantial line. Now, if this is your only option, obviously don’t fret. I live in New Jersey and it was super easy just ubering to the park and then there was a shuttle waiting for us when we arrived to drive us closer to the entrance, which was super clutch because the year prior I walked over a mile to just get through the park to get to the actual area where the event was! My first couple years going to the event, I lived in Harlem. So, we had to lug all our stuff on the subway and then lug it over to the line where we waiting for the ferry to then lug it all the way from the ferry to the actual grounds where the event takes place. In the case you have to travel from NYC, just be mindful of the hustle bustle and prepare yourself mentally. Also, wear comfy shoes and just know that it’s going to be a bit of a journey until you can actually sit down and relax at the event.

My next recommendation is to not underestimate the heat or the rain. I’ve been to the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic when it was raining, storming, heat wave, you name it, I’ve experienced it. The best advice here to obviously watch the weather and make the right accommodations. If there is rain in the forecast, don’t trip, the event happens rain or shine. Just get a super cute umbrella and a waterproof picnic blanket! Normally, the rain won’t last and the sun comes back out in no time and the event continues on.

The number on thing a lot of people get wrong for the polo classic is not preparing at least the night before. Preparation is key ya’ll! I prepare a couple days out to have a flawless execution day of. I go to the grocery store and I get all the good snacks. Word to the wise, I know cheese boards and charcuterie sounds fantastic for a picnic but if it’s 80 plus degree’s like it’s been in years past that is not the best idea unless you have something that will keep that type of food cool in the heat. I’ve had pepperoni sizzle and cheese melt because it was that hot. Stick to things that are fine in any kind of weather and you’ll be good to go. Pro Tip* definitely bring a wrap or sandwich or two. Keep them on ice packs in your picnic basket and eat those within the fist hour of being at the event. Keep the other snacks such as chips, cookies and other finger foods for later in the day.

Now, there is a very strict rule on no open containers and no alcohol at the event. Use your own discretion here on how you abide by this rule. Know that they will go through your bags in detail to find anything that is on the do not bring list. Message me for insight into some other tips and tricks on how we have dealt with this in the past! One thing I did last year which was so fun was host a pre Polo Classic breakfast at our apartment. I invited the group we were attending the event with over and we had a delicious, filling breakfast and tons of champagne! So we pre-gamed and felt amazing once we got to the event, making the walking and the commute seem like a dream! 🙂

Lastly, you have some decisions to make when it comes to the tickets. If you were lucky enough then you did the American Express early pre sale for $90 yesterday. To me this is without a doubt the best price. Now, if you have the $500 for the rose garden tickets then go right ahead! Live it up, boo! I just find that if you’re on a budget, the early access pre sale ticket is the best way to experience the event. Since most people don’t realize that once you get to the event you actually have to purchase your Veuve champagne and food if you didn’t prepare your own. *Remember, preparation is key!

If you follow the tips and recommendations I’ve outlined, I guarantee you will have a BLAST at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic. Start looking for your outfits now and text all your friends and get a big group of people to go with you! It’s always more fun that way.

I hope this blog post was helpful and I hope to see you on June 1st at the 12th Annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic.