3. Hampton Classic Horse Show

The Buzz -- In the early 1900s, a group of Hamptons equestrians organized the Southampton Horse Show to show off prize steeds and socialize. The show was discontinued during World War I (residents revived it in time for the '20s, of course) and again during World War II, and it has changed locations three times over the years. The current incarnation (which became known as the Classic in '78) is one of the largest hunter/jumper competitions in the US. Its more than 1300 horses and riders compete for a share of the $500,000 purse before approximately 60,000 spectators, most of them well-to-do. A grand social scene to be sure!