Wellington Winter Equestrian Festival begins, slated to bring major economic boost to the community

The Winter Equestrian Festival begins Wednesday in Wellington and is expected to be bigger than ever -- attracting thousands of the world's top horses and riders.

The event is also slated to bring a significant economic boost to Wellington and is the largest festival in the event's 32 year history.

Last year, 5,000 horses were at the festival, along with 6,700 riders, trainers and owners.

Those numbers are expected to increase by 20 percent this year. Organizers say they expect the number of spectators to increase as well.