The — who, what, where, when, why — that you need to know.

The world’s most coveted social calendar isn’t pencilled in; it’s etched in heritage, marked by forums, regattas, and grand prix across the globe. For 2026, it’s less about dates and more about destinations. SO2 adds to the social diary.

In August, families who’ve owned yachts for generations gather in Massachusetts for the Nantucket Regatta, a premier annual sailing event featuring various classes of sailboats, from classic wooden boats to modern racers, with days of racing, parties, and ocean conservation efforts.

In September the glitterrati head to England for the Cartier Polo Charity Gala in Windsor for heritage, horses, and high society. Synonymous with the prestigious Cartier Queen’s Cup, the gala is held annually at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor.

October takes over Venice with the Hospitality Challenge a prestigious annual regatta for large sailing yachts (Maxi Yachts) held in Venice’s inner waters, celebrating sailing, the city of Venice, and the finest of Venetian hospitality.

November is Le Bal des Débutantes, Paris, the renowned, invite-only debutante ball where haute couture-wearing scions of the world’s most elite international families make their debut.

December ends with St Barts’s New Year’s Regatta, where sailboats and yachts at the Gustavia Harbor make the show for a thrilling, fireworks-laced start to the new year!

Source: IG/@opulcess

Nantucket Regatta.

Venice Hospitality Challenge.

Attendees of the 2025 Le Bal at the Shangri-La Paris hotel.

St Barts New Year’s Regatta saintbarth-tourisme.com

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