Events at Detroit Polo Club, Howell

About Detroit Polo Club

Detroit Polo Club (DPC) is a premier sports and event venue located near Howell, Michigan, dedicated primarily to the sport of polo. Founded in 1962, it is widely regarded as “the premier polo club in the greater Detroit area” (www.hartlandchamber.org). The club sits on a sprawling rural property (roughly 160–180 acres) north of I-96 in Livingston County, featuring two full-size grass polo fields, extensive horse stables, and training facilities. The expansive grounds are picturesque, with rolling fields and horse pastures that create a scenic countryside backdrop for matches (www.dbusiness.com). In its current incarnation (since 2016) the DPC even added an enclosed regulation polo arena, making it one of the few year-round equestrian venues in the region (www.dbusiness.com). What makes the Detroit Polo Club notable is its blend of sport, tradition and community. Aside from hosting high-goal and amateur polo matches, the club also welcomes corporate outings, charity galas, weddings and special events (www.hartlandchamber.org). Its Sunday open matches are famously free to the public and encourage tailgating, which has become a local tradition and part of the venue’s culture (www.dbusiness.com). In many ways DPC serves as a community hub: it’s one of the oldest continuously operating polo institutions in Michigan, tied to the region’s equestrian history, and it brings international flair (players and coaches often travel from out of state or abroad). The club is a current member of the United States Polo Association, reflecting its official status in the sport. For visitors, DPC offers a unique experience – watching a polo match under the Michigan sky, surrounded by a festive, family-friendly atmosphere that connects sport with rural charm (explorebrightonhowellarea.com) (www.dbusiness.com).

Events and Programming

Detroit Polo Club’s calendar revolves around the polo season (typically spring through early fall), but programming is diverse throughout the year. Weekly horse arena practices and pickup games happen in the winter and spring, but the core schedule is packed with official matches and tournaments. Regular Sunday polo matches start at midday and are open to spectators at no charge (www.dbusiness.com) – a long-running tradition that encourages local fans to watch and tailgate. The club’s 2025 schedule (for example) highlights marquee annual events like the “Cowboy Cup” in late June and the “Margarita Cup” in late July (www.detroitpoloclub.com). These are multi-day team tournaments featuring high-goal polo play, with names reflecting fun summer themes. All special events at DPC (such as the Margarita Cup) are advertised as free to the public (www.detroitpoloclub.com) (explorebrightonhowellarea.com), further reinforcing the club’s community-friendly approach. Beyond regular polo, DPC hosts a range of related events. These include charity matches (the club partners with organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (www.dbusiness.com)), corporate team-building experiences (company outings where guests learn polo basics), and occasionally fashion or social galas that play off the polo aesthetic. The venue has become known for its festive atmosphere – for example, the Margarita Cup promotes “high-energy polo matches in a beautiful, scenic setting” (explorebrightonhowellarea.com), complete with live DJs or bands on the sidelines and vendors throughout the grounds. While Detroit Polo Club is primarily a sporting facility, past events have sometimes included live musical acts or DJs during large festivals, making use of the open lawn space for dancing and festivities. The club’s staff emphasizes family-friendly entertainment, with many events featuring children’s activities during the day (pogo sticks, face painting, and the like) and post-match social hours for adults. Notable past events at DPC include the regular Sunday polo series (often called “match day tailgates”), as well as annual highlight tournaments like the Margarita Cup. In 2023-2024, DPC’s polo season drew significant crowds, with guests often camping out at the fields early in the day. Although specific concert-style performances at DPC have been less common, the venue occasionally co-hosts events like the Detroit Polo & Fashion Classic (a Detroit-centered charity polo and fashion event) which bring in high-profile guests and runway shows. Due to the open nature of the grounds, the venue has flexibility to host live music festivals, private masquerade events, or corporate retreats on its lawns and arenas, depending on bookings. (However, most public events remain focused on polo and related social gatherings.) Typical ticket prices vary by event. For traditional polo matches and tournaments (like the Margarita Cup), admission is free (www.detroitpoloclub.com) (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). Fundraiser galas, fashion shows, and charity matching events usually sell tickets in advance: early-bird tickets might range from $30 to $100, with VIP or table packages costing more. Those special events are usually ticketed through the club’s website or affiliated event promoters. Because many popular events attract full attendance, it’s wise to reserve tickets early or arrive at the gate before rush hour closures. Practically all polo-event tickets (when required) sell out quickly since capacities are capped by parking and field space. Detroit Polo Club often announces event tickets on its official site and social media, and local news sometimes highlights big tournaments, so staying updated online is the best strategy for planning attendance.

Tickets and Booking

For casual visitors interested in the sport, note that **regular outdoor polo matches at DPC are free and open to all** (www.dbusiness.com) (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). You don’t need pre-purchased tickets for Sunday games or free tournaments – just show up at the gates, which usually open by late morning. However, if you plan to attend a special event (like a charity gala or fashion-themed match), you’ll generally need to buy tickets in advance. Tickets for those events are typically sold through the Detroit Polo Club’s website or event partners. (The club itself does not sell tickets via third-party marketplaces like Ticketmaster; check official channels.) Popular events can be announced weeks or even months in advance, so check the club’s online schedule and social media regularly. For year-round planning, some larger events may offer tiered pricing. For example, a boutique polo tournament might have general admission alongside a limited VIP/up-front seating area. Party areas (e.g. sponsored tailgate tents) sometimes require a cover charge. On-site box office sales (cash or credit at the gate) are rare; most events prefer pre-registration. As a rule of thumb, assume that fully free polo gatherings stay free for general admission, while evening events with music or fashion elements charge a moderate door fee (multiple tens of dollars). Buying tickets early often comes with perks, such as priority parking or complimentary event merchandise. When attending, plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the start time of a match or show. Early arrival guarantees the best viewing spots along the field edges. For large matches, some lines might form at the gate, so early-bird guests avoid the crowd. If you do have a ticket for a ticketed event, make sure to pick it up (or have a mobile QR code ready) before arriving. Detroit Polo Club’s box office (during events) is usually located near the main entrance pavilion. For most events, there are no strict seating assignments, but some premium areas might be cordoned off; it’ll be explained at arrival by staff or ushers.

Seating and Layout

The Detroit Polo Club grounds are essentially open fields and outdoor arenas, so seating is mostly informal. There are **no fixed grandstands** along the field; spectators typically set up along the sidelines. Visitors should bring their own seating comforts: folding chairs, blankets or small portable stools are strongly recommended (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). The Explore Brighton site explicitly advises, “Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon” at the Margarita Cup (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). Most attendees spread out on grassy lawns near the action. A few grassy berms or gently sloping areas serve as natural seating, but no built benches are provided in most spots. For those seeking the best views, the ideal locations are along the mid-field sidelines, balanced near the halfway line of the polo fields. From there you can see most plays develop. The arena block (if indoors) has limited steady seating around its edges; these may be first-come. Since visibility can vary, some guests note that standing close to the field gives great immersion (you may hear hoofbeats up close!). If the sun is bright, seek shade under any trees or bring an umbrella. In warm weather, the field areas remain exposed, so sunscreen and hats are wise. Conversely, spring and fall breezes can make it chilly, so layered clothing is advised if evening matches are on the schedule. Because it’s an outdoor venue, **acoustics and lighting are event-dependent**. Afternoon matches rely on natural light. Evening events or concerts (such as a rally or half-time show) will use portable stage lights and sound rigs brought in by event staff. However, for typical weekday or Sunday matches, plan on limited artificial lighting; most games end before dusk. If attending an evening show or party on-site, check whether the event page mentions lighting or sound systems – often professional AV teams set up for DJs or bands, but casual matches may only have a small PA for announcements. There are **no restricted zones** aside from the field-of-play, which is off-limits to spectators (like any sporting event). Otherwise, all grass areas are accessible. The barn and stable areas are private for players and staff; spectators should not wander past barriers near stables. On event days, staff usually rope off the horse areas and keep fans in designated viewing zones around the field.

Getting There and Parking

Detroit Polo Club is located at **700 Saddle Club Lane, Howell, MI 48843** (www.hartlandchamber.org) (explorebrightonhowellarea.com) (some signage may simply say “Detroit Polo Club”). The venue lies about 5–6 miles north of downtown Howell, in rural Livingston County. It’s easiest reached by **car**. From **Detroit/Ann Arbor**: take I-96 west to Exit 137 (Howell). Then head north on Old US-23 (also called Eagle Highway). Turn right (east) on Bergin Road, then left on Saddle Club Lane; follow it to the end at a cul-de-sac where the club is situated (www.hartlandchamber.org). From **Grand Rapids**: take I-96 east to Old US-23 south, then the same route via Bergin. From **Lansing/East Lansing**: drive east on I-96 to Howell/US-23, then north or south on Old US-23 as needed. The club is essentially at the end of a country road, so watch for signs – there is typically one at the edge of the property. There is **ample free parking on site**. The grounds include large open lots and pastureland converted to parking fields on event days. On busy polo weekends, volunteers or staff direct cars to grass parking areas near the entrance. Parking is free of charge; donations are sometimes accepted (for charity events). The parking pattern is usually “park in any open space” – no assigned spots. Attendants will guide new guests on where to park (often shuttle carts are available if the walk is long). Note that grass lots can get muddy after rain, so wearing sturdy shoes is wise. Public transportation options are very limited at the Detroit Polo Club. No local bus or train serves the venue due to its rural location. The nearest city transit (via Indian Trails bus) stops in downtown Howell or Brighton, a few miles away. If you prefer not to drive, rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) can drop you at Saddle Club Lane. We suggest coordinating a pick-up time in advance since cell service can be spotty on the country roads around the venue. For drivers, a rideshare or taxi can drop guests at the main entrance. A common drop-off point is directly in front of the club’s main gates/offices near the parking area. Note that cell reception on-site can be inconsistent; it may be best to call your ride when you turn onto Bergin Road, as you approach.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival, visitors typically enter through a main gate on Saddle Club Lane. There may be a small check-in booth or sign where staff greet guests. Expect a relaxed, family-friendly vibe: the setting is outdoors with a mix of horse enthusiasts, families, and casual spectators mingling. Many attendees come prepared for an afternoon outside. Security is generally light but attentive – bags might be subject to a quick check (especially clear backpacks) for safety. It’s wise to travel light: strollers and small daypacks are fine, but large coolers or wagons might be restricted. (Alcohol policy can vary by event; outside alcohol is typically discouraged or prohibited if the club sells concessions, but guests often share a bottle or two in their own tailgate setups.) As you walk in, you’ll see the green polo fields or arena before you. Grounds staff often mark out playing fields and set up any temporary structures. There may be a ropes or barricade line along the field edges indicating spectator zones. Follow any instructions from staff about where spectators can stand or sit. Oftentimes, the “general admission” area rings the field, and cordoned spaces on the ends might be for players, officials, or special ticket holders. Inside the venue’s event zone, there are a few **amenities** scattered around. Portable restrooms (porta-potties) are typically placed near the parking lot and around the outer edge of the fields. They’re usually well-stocked during big events. Some larger tournaments bring in restroom trailers for added comfort. You’ll also find event staff or first-aid booths (a van or tent) in case of emergencies. The ground is mostly flat, but can be uneven or grassy – strollers and wheelchairs may need assistance across the grass. Food and drink: On match days the club often has food trucks and concession stands. For example, at the Margarita Cup there are vendors selling snacks, soft drinks, and even margaritas (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). The Explore Brighton event page specifically notes that “food and beverages, including margaritas, will be available” for purchase (explorebrightonhowellarea.com). Typical offerings include burgers, sandwiches, snacks, ice cream, and cold beer or soda. Many vendors accept cash or card. Tailgating is strongly encouraged, so many groups bring their own coolers and picnic supplies. You can set up your folding table or blanket close to the action and enjoy your own food, or grab something from a vendor for a quick bite. Coat check: there is none. If it’s an evening event, have a plan for jackets or blankets (guests often keep these in their car). Merchandise: on big event days, the club may have a small booth selling polo hats, T-shirts, and other branded items. However, stock is limited, so if you want official gear, it may be better to buy the polo-themed merchandise on the club’s website in advance. Connectivity on-site can be hit-or-miss. Do not rely on cell phone signal for navigation or streaming video once you arrive – service is spotty in this rural area. Some events might offer Wi-Fi (usually only in a VIP tent), but it’s safest to assume you’ll have basic connectivity only. Atmosphere inside is lively and festive. Spectators often mingle with the players during breaks – it’s common for friendly conversation at the fence. Children can often get close and even meet ponies under supervision. Staff and volunteers are usually very welcoming to first-time visitors. Remember that loud noises or sudden movements near the field could startle horses, so be respectful when near the sidelines.

Nearby Amenities

Though the club itself is in a rural area, downtown Howell is a short drive away (roughly 6 miles south) and offers dining, drinks, and lodging options. Popular pre-show restaurants include casual pubs and brewpubs. For instance, **Lena’s Lakeside Grill** (right on a small lake) and **Little Lena’s** are known locally for American fare and a festive atmosphere – they are just off I-96 near Exit 137 (Howell) and are about a 10-15 minute drive from the club. The **Hitching Post Bar & Grill** in downtown Howell is another local favorite (classic American menu with a bar). For quick bites, there are pizza and burger joints on the state road. **Jimmy’s Pourhouse Brewery** and **Valentino’s New York Pizza** are common pre- or post-match stops in Howell. Weekend brunch spots like **Lily’s Old Town Grill** or **The Barn** also see many polo patrons after morning games. If you want to arrive early and stay late, or need an overnight, there are several hotels near Howell. The **Holiday Inn Express & Suites Howell** (right off I-96) and **Comfort Inn Howell** are within 5 miles of the venue, both offering free breakfast and pools. A newer **Fairfield Inn** is near Brighton’s retail strip about 15 minutes south (convenient for Easter Market or shopping). Brighton has additional chains like **Hampton Inn** or **Best Western** if Livingston County lodging is full. If you prefer a quaint stay, check out local B&Bs around the Howell area (advanced booking recommended in summer). For travel logistics: aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the event start time if you’re shopping or dining beforehand, as Howell’s downtown can be busy on weekends. Most polo days start early (around 12pm or 1pm), so lunch before is common. After events, late-night food options are limited, so plan to eat before leaving the area. Rideshare and taxi pick-up points in Howell are generally at the parking lot of **Valvoline Instant Oil Change** or the Holiday Inn parking lot on Brighton Road, which are easy reference points for drivers. Staff may even suggest a meeting spot after matches if needed.

What Makes This Venue Special

Detroit Polo Club stands out as a rare combination of sporting tradition and social festivity. For many attendees, it’s not just a polo match – it’s a **cultural event**. The very idea of watching ponies racing across a field and chukkering mallets while relaxing with friends on a picnic is a unique Midwestern experience. Unlike most sporting venues, DPC’s atmosphere is famously interactive: spectators often bring their own tailgate setups, complete with coolers, grills, and games, creating a party vibe that feels more like a country fair than a stadium. Architecturally, the venue is striking in its simplicity: wide-open green fields stretching under the sky, framed by horse pasture and occasional barns or grand tents. There are no tall concrete stands or flashy marquees; instead, the beauty lies in the unspoiled rural Michigan landscape. One scenic highlight is that the sun often sets beyond the fields late in summer, painting the sky orange as the final chukker ends – a truly memorable backdrop for photos and social media. Historically and culturally, DPC keeps the classic heritage of polo alive in Michigan. As DBusiness reported, polo has deep local roots (Belle Isle, etc.) and Detroit Polo Club was founded during polo’s heyday. Today, it is one of the very few places in the Detroit area where you can regularly watch polo, preserving a sporting tradition. The club’s events like the Margarita Cup or charity matches are community-building parties as much as sports games (explorebrightonhowellarea.com) (www.dbusiness.com). The venue’s management emphasizes community impact – for example, DPC donates proceeds from certain events to local charities like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (www.dbusiness.com). Furthermore, the Detroit Polo Club has become a destination for crossover culture. Fashionable spectators often don traditional polo attire (bright polos, sunhats) or whimsical costumes for theme matches. Local DJs and live bands occasionally perform, turning the polo field into a makeshift concert lawn (particularly during twilight matches or festivals). Unlike many sports venues, the audience here is not just watching; it’s an entire day at the country showcase with dancing, gourmet tailgates, and vibrant community spirit. Even visitors who aren’t polo fans leave with shared stories about how the horses thunder by and how they fell in love with the club’s relaxed, energetic scene. Artistically, the venue space doubles for photogenic events – it’s common to see bridal or fashion shoots on the field during breaks. Several Detroit-focused style events (e.g. Fashion Classic) have chosen DPC for its outdoorsy glamour. In short, what makes Detroit Polo Club special is how it marries the “old money” elegance of polo with the Midwestern love of pub crawls and picnics. It’s beloved by equestrians and casual fun-seekers alike, appealing to both tight-knit polo fans and any group looking for a breezy, unexpected day out in nature.

Visitor Tips and Information

Plan your visit with these practical tips: **Accessibility:** The venue is wheelchair accessible, with level grassy areas and ramp access to main spectator zones (www.cvent.com). Just note: on wet days, grassy patches can be muddy or slippery, so shoes with some grip are advised.] **What to Bring:** Definitely pack a blanket or portable chair for seating ([explorebrightonhowellarea.com). Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are essential for summer days. In cooler months bring a jacket or wrap. Binoculars can enhance viewing the action from farther back, though you can also walk near the field for a closer look (horses are usually within earshot). **Food and Drink:** Tailgating is allowed, so feel free to bring snacks or picnic gear. The club publishes an event policy that generally prohibits outside alcohol if official drinks are sold, but small coolers (with water, soda, and emergency snacks) are welcome. Always carry a bottle of water, as the estate has limited fountains. Concession stands sell basics (burgers, sandwiches, chips, soft drinks and beer), and specialty events often have food trucks with regional fare. **Common mistakes to avoid:** Don’t assume there are rows of seats; arrive early to stake out your spot. If an event is ticketed, **don’t show up without confirming your ticket** – organizers do sometimes turn away walk-ins if the capacity is reached. Also, be mindful of sudden weather – many events are rain-or-shine, so pack a compact umbrella or poncho just in case. If you’re sensitive to insects, bring repellent – the fields are fairly open and mosquitoes can be an issue near dusk. **Dress code:** There is no strict dress code. Most people dress comfortably casual. Smart-casual is typical for evening events (sundress or slacks and polo shirt), while day games see many wearing shorts, jeans, or sundresses. For traditional tournaments you might see a mix of preppy and edgy fashion (boho summer dresses are common in the style-conscious crowd). Footwear should be closed-toe or sandals with a good grip if possible, since you’ll be walking on grass or standing a lot. **Age restrictions:** All ages are welcome at polo matches – children often attend. Some evening social events (with alcohol or adult themes) might be 21+, but general polo days have no age limit. **Weather and cancellations:** Matches are usually held “weather permitting” (www.dbusiness.com). In case of heavy rain or unsafe ground conditions, events may be delayed or rescheduled – check the club’s website or social media for any weather-related updates. On summer evenings, mosquitoes can bite at sunset, so consider bug spray. In very hot weather, the club may offer shaded misting tents for relief. If a match is cancelled after you arrive, organizers often provide a partial rain-check or announce reschedule dates during announcements. **Insider tips:** Saturdays and Sundays can be busy, so consider weekdays or Thursday nights for a quieter experience if available. If you’re mainly interested in the polo action (rather than the festival vibe), midweek practice matches (open practices, often on Sunday afternoons at no cost) can be very enjoyable and less crowded. If attending a large event, vote for lawn picnic spots on turf that is already a bit beaten or in grass rather than near fresh pasture corners (for even viewing). Keep an eye out for special on-site demos: sometimes the club offers short “Polo 101” clinics during intermissions. And don’t forget to say hello to the staff or managers – they are known to be very welcoming and often share extra info about the horses and players if you show interest.