Billionaire Social Calendar: Keeping Up With The Bezos’ And Buffets

Ever had two invitations for the same weekend and had to pick one? The billionaire version is May, when the fashion, film and car crowds all want you in the same month.

And May is only one page of the diary. In St. Moritz, thoroughbreds race across the frozen lake with skiers towed behind them. At Port Hercules, around 40 new superyachts are unveiled each September. At the Vienna Opera Ball, the dance floor stays open until 5 a.m., white tie only.

Why fly in on a luxury private jet when you could stay home in your mega mansion? Because deals, art and yachts change hands at these events.

The people who own the world’s most expensive houses and a diamond-embellished Rolex or two don’t fly in for the canapés.

So here is the year, month by month, with how you get in wherever we know it.

These are events that come back every year, or every two or four years where we say so. Each one is filed under the month it usually falls in. Exact dates move, so check the organizer before you book.

January

Davos World Economic Forum – Davos, Switzerland

It’s not all fun and games in the life of a billionaire. Many of them see their wealth as a responsibility to make a change. Kicking off the rich people social calendar is the Davos World Economic Forum, an annual meeting hosted in Switzerland where influential people discuss financial priorities for the year ahead.

Don’t go looking for a ticket. The Annual Meeting is invitation-only, and places go to the Forum’s partners, members and selected guests.

ART SG – Singapore

A rich person’s pastime, collecting art is both a hobby and an investment for many billionaires. In January, Singapore’s answer is ART SG, held at Marina Bay Sands with more than 100 galleries from over 30 countries.

It took the slot left by Art Stage Singapore. That fair was cancelled a week before opening and never came back. Anyone with a ticket can walk the floor. The public days fill a long weekend, after a VIP preview and vernissage, and tickets are sold online.

Sundance Film Festival – Colorado, United States

Sundance is moving from Park City, Utah, to a new home in Boulder, Colorado, on a 10-year deal. It still falls in January.

Whether you’re a director, an actor or just someone with cash lying around, it’s a great opportunity to mingle with A-listers and celebrate film. You’ll find the rich and famous at the celebrity lounges, partying with the who’s who of the industry and turning up at the late-night screenings.

St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow – St. Moritz, Switzerland

A favorite among royals, polo has always been an elite sport. But couple that with St. Moritz’s opulent Alpine resorts and it’s no surprise that you’ll find many of the world’s richest people sipping one of the best champagne brands beneath the Swiss slopes. And besides enjoying the sport, gourmet food selections, exclusive social events and five-star resorts are the ordre du jour.

Cresta Run – St. Moritz, Switzerland

You don’t need an invitation to ride the Cresta. You need a membership. The run is built from natural ice and stretches from St. Moritz to Celerina, and it is ridden mainly by members of the St. Moritz Tobogganing Club. Membership is open to anyone who meets the club’s criteria.

The history runs deep. The run dates from 1884 and the club from 1887. Women were barred from riding it from 1929 until 2018.

February

White Turf International Horse Races – St. Moritz, Switzerland

White Turf puts horse racing on the frozen lake at St. Moritz, along with skijoring. Skijoring? Don’t worry we had to google it too. Just picture thoroughbreds galloping across a frozen lake and attached to them are humans on skis.

The races run on three Sundays in February in front of more than 30,000 spectators. Tickets are on sale to anyone, and under-16s get in free. The exclusive layer is the hospitality.

Super Bowl – United States

Early February belongs to the Super Bowl. And while the tickets are pricey by nature, the championship NFL game is less about exclusivity and more about joining in the vibe. Yes, some billionaires take to their private suites. But many sit in the stadium with the rest of us, oversized hoodies and all.

Vienna Opera Ball – Vienna, Austria

The Vienna Opera Ball is one of the most glamorous balls of the season. Paying homage to centuries of tradition, the dress code is strictly white tie and tails for men and floor-length gowns for women. After the debutantes’ iconic dance, the dance floor is open to everyone until 5 o’clock in the morning.

Fashion Weeks – Worldwide

For some, February is the month of love. For others, it’s the month of fashion. With Fashion Weeks happening all around the world, from New York to London to Milan, you’ll find most celebrities and A-listers on the side of a runway.

Fashion Week isn’t open to the public. But if you have enough money and influence, you’re almost certainly on the list.

March

Dubai World Cup – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Perhaps you’re a billionaire horse breeder. Or perhaps you’re more interested in placing bets on who will wear the largest hat. Either way, the Dubai World Cup is renowned for attracting the rich and famous. From VIP restaurants to exclusive events, for many the horse race is a networking opportunity not to be missed.

Art Basel Hong Kong – Hong Kong, China

Late March is Art Basel’s turn in Hong Kong, with about 240 galleries on show. The open-plan fair is a must-see for art aficionados. For the world’s richest tycoons, it’s a hunting ground for new investments.

It also doesn’t hurt that the cultural experience is perfectly balanced by epic nights out.

April

US Masters Golf Tournament – Georgia, United States

It appears that gentlemen’s clubs aren’t the only clubs attracting high-profile visitors. The US Masters Golf Tournament is played at Augusta National, a private golf club that counts Bill Gates and Warren Buffett among its members.

So in April, you’ll see plenty of billionaires floating along the fairways. Some of them are the hosts.

Singapore Yachting Festival – Singapore

Life is pretty plain sailing when you’re a billionaire. You buy one of the largest yachts in the world. And then you show it off in Singapore.

The Singapore Yachting Festival runs for four days in April at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove. You may know it by its old name, the Singapore Yacht Show.

May

Met Gala – New York City, United States

Known as “fashion’s biggest night out,” the Met Gala falls in early May, and many of us wait in eager anticipation to see who wears what. But more than just exquisite gowns, it’s an annual fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. As one of the most exclusive events, it brings together celebrities from the worlds of fashion, film, music and art, as well as tech billionaires (we see you, Bezos).

Cannes Film Festival – Cannes, France

Held since 1946, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry. Showcasing and awarding new films from around the world, it is held annually in May at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in the French Riviera town of Cannes.

And reserved primarily for film industry professionals, you have to be someone to receive an invite. Cue: the lineup of Hollywood A-listers and some of the biggest names in international cinema.

Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Car Show – Cernobbio, Italy

This is the one on Lake Como. The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is held each May in Cernobbio, on the shore of the lake, and it began as a beauty contest for cars in 1929.

It still showcases some of the world’s finest classic and concept cars from leading automotive manufacturers. Today the event is organized by BMW Group, and it draws deep-pocketed collectors and automobile enthusiasts alike.

Glyndebourne Opera Festival – East Sussex, United Kingdom

There’s nothing more sophisticated than getting all dressed up for the opera at the historic Glyndebourne manor house. The festival was founded in 1934 by John Christie and his wife Audrey Mildmay, and it is known for its high production values.

Performed in the picturesque countryside, the festival is a throwback to old-school high society. No wonder it’s a hotspot for affluent guests.

Kentucky Derby Horse Race – Kentucky, United States

Hold your hats, we’re betting big! The Kentucky Derby is a prestigious race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses. It is held in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May. And distinguished by its short duration and the blanket of roses draped over the winner, it is affectionately known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports” or “The Run For The Roses.”

PGA Championship – United States

As one of the four majors, there’s nothing subpar about the PGA Championship. It’s played in May at a venue that rotates around the United States, so the host course changes from one year to the next.

The tournament is run by the PGA of America, the Professional Golfers’ Association. The US Open follows in June.

June

Henley Royal Rowing Regatta – Henley-on-Thames, United Kingdom

Not only is Henley Royal Rowing Regatta the highlight of the summer rowing season, but it’s also the climax of the UK social season. Endorsed by the royal family, the six-day event is renowned as one of the most prestigious events since 1839. And with a strict dress code and exclusive lounges, it continues to maintain its elite status.

Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix – Monaco

The Monaco Grand Prix lands in late May or early June, and we file it under June. The world’s most famous billionaires know a thing or two about living life in the fast lane, and race weekend on the harbor is where they prove it.

When the cars go quiet, the evenings move indoors. Our guide to the best private members’ clubs in Monaco tells you where, for the Grand Prix and for the Yacht Show in September.

European Soccer Championships – Europe

Here’s one you can’t count on every June. The European Championship is held every four years, in June and July, so check the year before you clear your diary.

When it does come round, it attracts spectators from all walks of life, including the richest people in the world. The tournament takes place over a month, and the final is where you’ll find most of the rich and famous.

US Open Golf Tournament – United States

Wondering what to do for Father’s Day? Golf’s answer is the US Open. It’s played on the third weekend of June and always ends on Father’s Day, at a venue that rotates around the United States.

As one of the four major golf tournaments, it has a reputation for identifying the best golfers in the world, and its difficult courses pose a stern challenge to all.

Royal Ascot Gold Cup Horse Race – Berkshire, United Kingdom

First run in 1807, the Gold Cup is the oldest race at the Royal Ascot meeting. Steeped in history and tradition, and with the support of the royal family behind the meeting, it is famous for attracting big bettors, and even bigger hats.

Roland Garros / French Open – Paris, France

Besides helping you find love, Paris has another ace up its sleeve: Roland Garros. Roland Garros (aka the French Open) is one of the four major tennis grand slam tournaments and the only one on clay. Attracting big hitters and affluent spectators alike, it’s an event not to be missed in the Billionaire Social Calendar.

July

Cowdray Gold Cup – Midhurst, United Kingdom

Its full name is a mouthful: the British Open Polo Championship for the Cowdray Gold Cup. It’s played at Cowdray Park near Midhurst, at 22-goal level, and the final falls in July on the Lawns.

Held on the Cowdray Estate, it takes you back to 19th-century England, when high society gathered to cheer on their men on horseback.

Wimbledon Tennis Championship Finals – London, United Kingdom

Not only is Wimbledon the only grand slam to be played on grass courts, but it is also the oldest tennis tournament in history. Shrouded in deep-rooted tradition, the players have to wear white, and strawberries and cream are almost a prerequisite for all courtside spectators.

But tickets aren’t available to just anyone. As one of the most exclusive events, tennis enthusiasts have to apply for the public ballot well ahead of time. Unless you’re a billionaire, and then you can pretty much do as you please. Everyone else calls a luxury concierge service. A seat at a sold-out Wimbledon final is the kind of request they field.

August

Bayreuther Wagner Music Festival – Bayreuth, Germany

Bayreuth has August to itself on this calendar. The festival starts in late July and runs to late August, so most of its run falls here.

It’s held in the small German town famous for its association with Richard Wagner, and it was started specifically to showcase his works. The operas are performed in the iconic auditorium where music unfolds like no other place on earth.

September

Venice International Film Festival – Venice, Italy

The Venice Film Festival opens in late August and runs into early September. It’s the perfect excuse to sail your superyacht into Italy.

Many screenings are open to the public. But it’s the discreet private affairs that attract industry stars and film-loving billionaires.

Monaco Yacht Show – Monaco

If you’re looking to upsize your superyacht, the Monaco Yacht Show is the place to go. In late September, around 40 new superyachts are unveiled at Port Hercules.

The public days are open to anyone with a ticket. Buy it online in advance, because nothing is sold at the gate. The opening day on the docks is kept for invited guests and VIP pass holders.

Salon Privé Supercar Show – Woodstock, United Kingdom

Salon Privé is the place to be seen for automobile aficionados and billionaires alike. It runs for five days in early September against the backdrop of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.

The Concours comes first, then Ladies’ Day, then Supercar Saturday and Sunday. Guests meander across pristine lawns, talk to the manufacturers and get up close to the supercars on show (our ranking of the fastest cars in the world is the homework). Tickets are sold on the Salon Privé website, from general admission up to hospitality packages.

Ryder Cup Golf Championship – United States / Europe

The Ryder Cup is a men’s golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. It’s contested every two years, and the venue alternates between the United States and Europe, so it isn’t a fixture every September.

Featuring its own set of rules, it is known for attracting a tastefully rowdy crowd from affluent circles.

Fashion Weeks – Worldwide

If you were too busy buying a private island in February, September is your chance to visit Fashion Weeks around the world, that is, if you’re invited of course. The top September fashion weeks take place in New York, London, Milan and Paris.

The houses open their doors to the most affluent in the industry, and the front row goes by invitation.

October

Singapore F1 Grand Prix – Singapore

Singapore races after dark. The Singapore Grand Prix is now held in early October as a night race, set against the backdrop of the city skyline.

It forms part of the Formula One World Championship. Between sessions, the weekend puts on headliner concerts.

Beijing Music Festival – Beijing, China

Every October, Beijing gives about two weeks to classical music. The Beijing Music Festival brings international artists and participants to the capital each year. You may have seen it listed as the Beijing International Music Festival.

It is often presented by big names in the industry, and it is a regular stop-off for producers looking for new talent.

Frieze Masters Art Show – London, United Kingdom

Frieze Masters shows art from antiquity to the late 20th century. It’s held in October in Regent’s Park, and the contemporary work is at Frieze London, on the same site.

The fair is open to the public. If you want to know what the collectors at Frieze and Art Basel are chasing, start with the most expensive paintings ever sold.

November

Melbourne Cup Horse Race – Melbourne, Australia

Along with golf and yacht shows, horse racing is a quintessential part of the Billionaire Social Calendar. And if you’re yet to place a bet on a winning horse, the Melbourne Cup is your last chance for the year.

It’s run on the first Tuesday in November. The Everest pays more, but the Cup is one of the richest turf races.

Le Bal des Débutantes – Paris, France

Le Bal des Débutantes is a charity ball held in Paris in late November.

Daughters of Hollywood’s elite, royal houses, business moguls and politicians from around the world receive the invitations. The haute couture gowns and opulent interiors add to the magnificence of the evening, but the heart of the ball is charity.

December

La Scala Opera House Opening Night – Milan, Italy

Mark December 7 in ink. La Scala’s season opens on the feast day of Milan’s patron saint, Saint Ambrose.

The opera house was inaugurated in 1778 as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala. Although tickets are made available to everyone, the Royal Box is reserved for the elite.

Art Basel Miami Beach – Miami, United States

Posed as a cultural meeting point in the art world, Art Basel Miami Beach celebrates new talent. Art Basel runs fairs in Basel, Hong Kong, Miami Beach, Paris and Qatar, and the Miami Beach public days fall in early December.

The Miami location is renowned as the hotspot for high-profile celebrities looking to add to their contemporary art collections.

St. Bart’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations – St. Barths, Caribbean

St. Barts certainly isn’t the largest island in the world, but it probably has the highest density of celebrity-chartered superyachts, especially over New Year’s Eve. With a plethora of rejuvenating spas, five-star restaurants, clean white sands and crystal clear waters, we don’t blame the rich and famous for choosing the Caribbean island to bring in the new year.

So, back to those two invitations for the same weekend. New Year’s Eve in St. Barts is the one date on the calendar nobody has to choose.