Imagine an expansive grassy plain the size of nine football fields bordered by mature flowers and pecan trees. New and old friends are mixing and mingling as they meander from table to table sipping wine or beer.
They are sampling delicious provisions spread on beautifully appointed “tailgate” tables. Their conversation is light and gay against the live music of Whiskey Poets. Elegant horses dart back and forth across the field with skillful riders atop, swinging long-handled mallets at a small ball.
This picturesque setting will unfold Saturday for Polo at McFaddin, a benefit for the Nave Museum. Gates open at 12:30 p.m., and the polo game begins at 2 p.m.
“A beautiful day in the country is a great way to start spring,” said Julie McCan, event organizer. “This is an afternoon in the country where new and old friends meet at a unique sporting event that celebrates one of the oldest art museums in the Crossroads.”
This year, 15 volunteer chefs will surprise guests with their fare. In past years, they have served tapas-sized portions of bacon-wrapped shrimp, guacamole, chili, barbecue and salmon, among other offerings. The dress is chic country elegant, and guests may bring lawn chairs to watch the game.
Items spread among the live and silent auctions under the big tent include Dian Malouf jewelry, artwork, dinner parties, a chicken coop complete with baby chicks, a hunting gun, a wagon of wine and a playhouse. Guests also have the opportunity to win two raffle prizes, a his-and-hers set of camo RTIC coolers filled with more than 20 gifts and a $500 Visa gift card. Raffle tickets are $20 each or $100 for six, and they are available for purchase at the Nave Museum and Organic Emporiums located in both Victoria and Cuero.
About 250 guests are expected to attend this year’s benefit polo game, and the event happens rain or shine, McCan said. Sponsorship tables located under the big tent also are available for purchase.
If You Go
WHAT: Polo at McFaddin benefiting the Nave Museum
WHEN: Saturday, April 6
WHERE: McFaddin Ranch Polo Grounds, 517 McCann Road, McFaddin
TICKETS: Tickets purchased in advance are $80 each for adults and $25 each for children under age 12. At the gate, tickets are an additional $10 each.
RAFFLE: Raffle tickets are $20 each or $100 for six.
CONTACT: Call 361-575-8228 or visit the Nave Museum, 306 W. Commercial St., to purchase event and raffle tickets or inquire about sponsorship opportunities. Raffle tickets may also be purchased at Organic Emporium in Victoria, 2918 N. Laurent St., and Cuero, 105 C L Duckett Drive.
Elena Anita Watts covers arts, culture and entertainment for the Victoria Advocate.