Flemington Racecourse

The Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of the most anticipated events on the Australian sporting and social calendar, blending world-class racing, fashion, and entertainment.

Held annually at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, the carnival spans four remarkable days, each with its unique charm and traditions. Here’s a closer look at the highlights of this iconic festival:

Melbourne Cup Day

Known as the “Race That Stops a Nation™,” Melbourne Cup Day is the crown jewel of the carnival. Taking place on the first Tuesday of November, this day is all about the Melbourne Cup, a 3,200-metre handicap race that attracts the finest thoroughbreds from around the globe.

With its staggering prize pool and rich history, the Melbourne Cup transcends the sport of horse racing, becoming a cultural phenomenon celebrated with public holidays in Victoria and countless events across Australia. Beyond the racing, it’s also a spectacle of fashion, pageantry, and a gathering of more than 100,000 fans dressed in their finest.

This opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival is considered the epitome of elegance. Held on the Saturday before the Melbourne Cup, Victoria Derby Day is synonymous with tradition and sophistication. The focus is on elite racing, including the Group 1 Victoria Derby, a prestigious 2,500-metre race for three-year-old thoroughbreds. It’s also a day for fashion purists, with the Black and White dress code setting the tone for an unparalleled display of style.

Commonly referred to as “Ladies Day,” Kennedy Oaks Day is the carnival’s celebration of femininity and grace. Taking place on the Thursday following the Melbourne Cup, the day centres around the Group 1 Kennedy Oaks, a race for three-year-old fillies over 2,500 metres. The event also showcases some of the carnival’s most glamorous outfits, with attendees competing for titles in the Myer Fashions on the Field competition.

Stakes Day, held on the Saturday after the Melbourne Cup, brings the carnival to a thrilling and family-friendly finale. Known officially as “Seppelt Wines Stakes Day,” this day features a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite for families and casual racegoers. The highlight of the day is the Group 1 VRC Sprint Classic, a premier sprint race attracting some of the fastest horses in the world. Beyond the track, family-focused activities and entertainment ensure fun for attendees of all ages.

Held at Flemington Racecourse during the Autumn Racing Carnival, the Australian Cup is one of the nation’s most historic and prestigious races. This 2,000-metre weight-for-age contest attracts the best middle-distance horses, with its rich prize pool and storied legacy making it a favourite among racing enthusiasts. Often seen as a pivotal race in the autumn calendar, the Australian Cup is known for its intense competition and dramatic finishes.

Another jewel in the Flemington calendar, the Newmarket Handicap is one of the most significant sprint races in Australia. Run over 1,200 metres, this Group 1 handicap is renowned for its competitive field and electrifying speed. The race is a highlight of the Autumn Racing Carnival and has produced some of the most memorable moments in Australian sprint racing history. It’s a must-watch for fans of fast-paced, high-stakes action.