The last quarter of the year is fast approaching, and that only means one thing for equestrian fans all around the world — it’s almost time for the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival!
Home of the famous Melbourne Cup, horse racing enthusiasts, bettors, and adventurers alike look forward to this exciting event. This annual event is held typically from September to November at different racecourses and offers a vibrant social scene for guests that includes not only a gripping lineup of races but a whole lot of festivities to enjoy with family and friends.
Immerse yourself in the bright horse racing scene – the essence of an Australian spring. These are the 10 things that will surely spark your excitement for the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.
The Melbourne Cup
The Spring Racing Carnival’s main attraction is the Melbourne Cup — one of the most prestigious and sought-after horse races in the world. Thousands of horse racing enthusiasts from all over the world come to the carnival to see the renowned Thoroughbred race.
Dubbed “the race that stops a nation”, the Melbourne Cup happens on the first Tuesday of November and is anticipated by around 100,000 spectators yearly!
Three Months of Horse Races
Believe us when we say the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is action-packed. The event holds not only one, not two, but over 50 horse races throughout – meaning there’s always a race to look forward, including the Caulfield Cup, Carlton Draught, and the Ladbrokes Cox Plate.
Related: Horse Racing 101: What Are the Different Kinds of Horse Races in Australia?
Mad Hatters on the Field
It’s not a derby without the grandiose headwear. The Australian springtime carnival is the perfect place to flaunt the best (and craziest) hats. From wide-brimmed boaters to dainty fascinators, they’re sure to keep the event bursting with colour.
Oaks Day Fashion-Off
Fashion is synonymous with the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival. Throughout the affair, ladies and gents arrive in their best outfits — boasting frilled dresses, extravagant headpieces, stand-out suits, and everything in between.
Often referred to as the “ladies’ day”, Kennedy Oaks Day houses the main fashion event of the carnival where people dress to impress (and win awesome prizes).
Kid-Friendly Activities
The Spring Racing Carnival can be fun for the whole family. Apart from horse races and other social events, children can definitely have their turn, too, They can enjoy a handful of activities like face painting, horseback riding, and more.
Dining at the Derby
In a day full of sun-kissed festivities and fun, it’s only a matter of time before carnival-goers get hungry. There is a wide variety of beverage and food options to try on the event grounds – from food trucks to pop-up restaurants.
If you’re looking for something fancier, the event doesn’t shy away from a good, fine dining experience. There are many luxury options at the venue that include an exclusive view of the track field.
More Live Entertainment
Horse racing is not the only thing the crowd rushes to see. The carnival offers an awesome line-up of spectacles such as musical acts from both local and international artists, and other performances to add to the wonder of the event.
Renowned Horses and Their Jockeys
Of course, the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is the perfect opportunity to get close to your horse racing heroes. Renowned horses, jockeys, and trainers from all around the globe come to Australia during this time of year to compete in the historical event.
Related: The Top 5 Greatest Australian Racehorses of All-Time
Star-Studded Festivities
Apart from celebrities of the horse racing world, a number of public figures and artists grace the carnival grounds, too, either as a part of the program or simply just to join in and experience the fun of the Spring Carnival.
Fund-Raisers and Charity
After all the festivities, the carnival deems it important to be able to give back to the community. A number of organized activities in the festival help charitable causes spread awareness and raise funds for their purpose.
Ready for the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival?
The Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is jam-packed with fun and celebration, making it impossible to get bored. So whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for the full Melbourne experience, this event is not to be missed out on.
Looking forward to the Spring Carnival as a bettor?
Edge Alerter is here to give you the upper hand on the most anticipated horse racing event in Australia! Stay ahead of the game with our state-of-the-art betting tipping system to give you the edge over bookmakers.
Related: Do you make these three crucial mistakes when betting on horse racing?
