One of our favorite places to visit is Aiken, South Carolina. Aiken is one of the original Winter Colonies dating back to 1719. The Goodyear's, Vanderbilt's and Hitchock families escaped the winters in the northeast and built mansions and sports playgrounds here.
It is an equestrian haven and hosts many events throughout the year. In the spring and fall you can always catch a game of polo on Sunday afternoon.
There is a new pavilion at the polo field where you can have lunch and watch the game in the shade. Most people tailgate along the edge of the field. We chose to do that as well - I brought along some Mint Juleps:)
You can set up tables and umbrellas - it is a pretty festive atmosphere. During half time everyone goes out to stomp the divots.
The horses are magnificent and it was a perfect day for Polo and Mint Juleps!
You have to watch out for the occasional wild ball when tailgating and yes this one was heading right at Moi! It stopped short - no harm done.
We had intended to spend Thanksgiving this year in Aiken attending the Blessing of the Hounds. Every Thanksgiving at 11:00 in beautiful Hicthcock Woods, 16 hounds, 65 prize winning horses and hundreds of observers come together to receive blessings before the fox hunt. Don't forget to stop by the Wilcox Hotel for Bagels & Bloodies before heading over to the Blessing. Afterwards there is an open table Thanksgiving Dinner at the Stables. Our plans have changed with the upcoming move and we will be back in Texas for Thanksgiving:)
The Wilcox Hotel has hosted Winston Churchill, President Roosevelt, Fred Astaire, Bing Croxby and Harold Vanderbilt, to name a few.
Photos: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman
Bottom two Photos - 2Luxury2
