Talk of the Town

Hello, Polo: Your Guide to Opening Day of Bridgehampton Polo

July 20, 2012 | Talk of the Town

As reported in our cover story interview with newly minted Bridgehampton Polo Club co-owner Nacho Figueras, this year’s polo festivities will pare down the party atmosphere and focus more on the kingly sport itself. But that’s not to say there won’t be Champagne and merriment in the exclusive VIP tent, which has hundreds less on the guest list than in previous years. Guests of the weekly VIP tent (matches occur every Saturday through August 25) will be treated to a pre-match reception, afternoon tea, and light hors d’oeuvres. Whether you make it through the velvet rope or not, here’s how we recommend getting in on tomorrow’s opening day action.

Host a Super-Luxe Tailgate  
Polo tailgating and picnicking is as traditional as the stomping of the divots. A few miles from Two Trees Farm, Loaves & Fishes Cookshop (2422 Montauk Hwy., Bridgehampton) is the ultimate spot for stocking your picnic basket. No-fork-necessary bites like piped deviled eggs, shrimp and lobster salad (just add rolls), and assorted cookies will do you just perfectly. Even simpler, stop by Pierre’s Gourmet Market (2468 Main St., Bridgehampton) or The Golden Pear Café (2426 Montauk Hwy., Bridgehampton) for sandwiches and sweets. If you’re packing Champagne, Veuve Clicquot is the only way to go—they even make a picnic-friendly ice bucket.

Settle in for the Main Event
Team captains and Bridgehampton Polo Club co-owners Nacho Figueras (Team Black Watch) and Peter Brant (Team White Birch) face off at 4 PM, but an opening ceremony will take place at 3 PM. General admission tickets are $25 per car and can be purchased on arrival; proceeds benefit the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreational Center. Do RSVP (jkinsley@hs-pr.com) to watch the game in the Ferrari Experience lounge, hosted by the brand’s North American CEO, Marco Mattiacci, as well as Brant and Figueras. Also, stop by the Davidoff cigar lounge with garden seating and shop a variety of pop-up shops. Bridgehampton Polo Club, Two Trees Farm, 849 Hayground Rd., Bridgehampton

Rush to the Riviera
Change into your ’50s beachwear best for the Navy Beach Riviera Le Swimsuit Beach and Boat Party (3 PM to sunset). DJ Sammy and local reggae group Winston Irie will provide the soundtrack, Calypso St. Barth will host a pop-up, and French cocktails and wine flow. Lunch and dinner menus will be offered and guests can reserve beachfront daybeds ($300 minimum). A 1950s-style swimsuit contest will also take place. Expect guests to motor in on both land and sea. 16 Navy Road, Montauk

For updates from the VIP tent at Bridgehampton Polo, follow Hamptons editor in chief @samanthayanks on Twitter

—APRIL WALLOGA