Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the Harriman Cup and how do I get there?
The Harriman Cup is held at Bethpage Polo at the Park in Bethpage State Park in Bethpage, NY. If you're driving, the best entrance is located at the intersection of Plainview Road and Manchester Drive. There will be parking available on site on a first-come, first-serve basis. Keep in mind that Bethpage State Park charges an $8 entrance fee per vehicle. (This charge is for any vehicle entering the park for golf, events, etc. and is separate from the Harriman Cup.) If you intend to consume alcohol at the event, please ensure that you have a designated driver or alternate way of getting home.
If you're traveling by train, the easiest way is to take a direct 50-minute train ride from Penn Station to Bethpage. LIRR trains leave Penn Station every hour at 0:17 and 0:54 on the Ronkonkoma line. You can also take the LIRR train from Grand Central, however, there are NO direct trains from Grand Central to Bethpage on Saturday. You will NEED TO SWITCH at Jamaica.
There will be free shuttle buses that will take guests between the Bethpage train station and the polo field, which is only a 6-minute drive away.
The return trains to Penn Station leave Bethpage every hour at 0:03 and 0:39. See schedules to and returning from Bethpage at the MTA website: https://new.mta.info/schedules.
2. What should I wear?
Check out the Gallery and our Instagram / Facebook pages to get an idea, and be creative! We award prizes for Best Hat, Best Dressed, Best Tailgate, and Best Dog.
3. Can I set up a tailgate?
Yes, people set up tailgates by the polo field, often next to their cars. They can be pretty simple or they can be ornate – with tents and themed decorations! You can reserve a Prime Sideline Tailgate spot on our Ticket page.
4. How much is parking?
There is no cost for parking. Parking is first come, first serve. However, you can reserve a Prime Sideline Tailgate spot where you can park right next to the polo field. To reserve a spot, go to our Ticket page.
Keep in mind that Bethpage State Park charges an $8 entrance fee per vehicle. This charge is for any vehicle entering the park for golf, events, etc., and it is separate from the Harriman Cup.
5. Can I set up or rent a tent for my tailgate?
Yes, you can, but all tents must be coordinated through the Harriman Cup committee. You can reserve a Cabana Tent on our Ticket page.
6. Can I use a barbecue grill at my tailgate?
No attendee can have a BBQ grill or open flame at the event.
7. If I need to make a food/beverage run, what is nearby?
King Kullen is your best bet!
8. Will food and drinks be available for purchase at the event?
Yes, there will be food trucks selling hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, sodas, and more. VIP attendees will have access to a catered buffet and open bar in the VIP tent from 11AM to 3PM. Alcoholic beverages will be sold in the dance tent during the afterparty starting at 3PM.
9. Can children come?
Yes, children under 16 of age may attend the polo match for free.
10. What happens if it rains?
The Harriman Cup happens rain or shine. As safety of both horses and players is our primary concern, in the event of rain, the Harriman Cup Committee will determine whether conditions are safe enough to play the polo match. However, the festivities will happen no matter what!