Spanning four exciting and iconic race days, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is the racing event to end all racing events in Australia. Each day brings race goers something unique, from an eclectic selection of competitive racing events, to fashion walks, and a selection of fine food stalls. With a bigger-than-ever range of accompanying activities and shows, this year’s Cup Carnival is set to be the most exciting yet. If you’re taking any Melbourne tours at this time of year, make sure you squeeze in a visit to this iconic event.
What is the Melbourne Cup?
One of Australia’s most prestigious Thoroughbred horse races, the Melbourne Cup is a fast and brilliant 3,200 metre race for three-year-old horses. It boasts the richest “two-mile” handicap on the planet, and is one of the most affluent turf races in the world. It takes place every single year thanks to the Victoria Racing Club at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.
The first Melbourne Cup race was held more than a century ago in 1861. Originally, the course spanned two miles (or 3.219 metres), but in 1972 it was shortened to
3,200 metres when Australia adopted the metric system.
As well as watching the selection of races and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the event, there are plenty of other activities you can get stuck into over the course of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Entertainment and Events
Fairground Rides
Each year, there is an accompanying fairground, including a vintage Ferris wheel and carousel. You can watch the action unfold from the height of the Ferris wheel, or simply get into the swing of things on one of the many fun (and free) rides.
Dress Up in High Fashion
Fashion has long gone hand-in-hand with the Melbourne Cup Carnival, and there
is usually a roster of high-fashion events that take place alongside the main races. The Myer Fashion event is the largest outdoor fashion show of its kind in Australia, catering to men and women and offering industry awards for talented designers and milliners.
The Red Rock Deli Sensorial Sculptures
Getting the perfect race day photo is a keen ambition for many race goers. Luckily, this year, Red Rock Deli is hosting an interactive sculpture show with professional photographers on hand so you can get the perfect shot.
Melbourne Cup Carnival is a huge racing event in the Australian calendar, but, as you can see, it’s not just for racing fanatics. With a selection of accompanying events and a delicious array of food stalls, there’s a little something for everyone at this high-brown annual event.
