Annual Pole Vault to Benefit St. Matthew’s House

The fifth annual Pole Vault in the Plaza will take place April 11, 2026, at Mercato in Naples. The event will benefit St. Matthew’s House in its mission to provide hope, help, and healing to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, hunger, and addiction. Opening ceremonies begin at 5:00 PM with competition through 8:25 PM. Closing ceremonies take place from 8:30 to 9:00 PM.

The Pole Vault in the Plaza event is sanctioned by the USA Track & Field (USATF) and World Athletics organizations with results qualifying participants for the World Championships and Olympics. These talented athletes will compete in a thrilling pole vault competition that features an all-pro roster that includes some of the best athletes in the sport as well as Olympics competitors.

According to Simon Weardon, Pole Vault in the Plaza founder and president, “We selected St. Matthew’s House as the recipient of proceeds from this event because each of their team members shares caring and support for the Southwest Florida community and those who need a hand up. Partnering with the St. Matthew’s House team has helped bring this event to the next level while raising awareness of their mission.”

Pole Vault in the Plaza is free and open to the public. VIP tent admission charge and available sponsorships are available at polevaultintheplaza.com. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from the many restaurants at Mercato.