Jockeys in colourful silks racing on turf

Melbourne, VIC · Spring

Melbourne Cup Carnival

Four race days around the first Tuesday of November; Melbourne Cup on first Tuesday of November

The Melbourne Cup Carnival packs four of the world's great race days into a week at Flemington: Derby Day, Melbourne Cup Day, Oaks Day and Stakes Day. The Cup itself, run on the first Tuesday of November since 1861, remains the race that stops the nation, and Cup Day is a public holiday in Victoria.

Around 300,000 racegoers attend across the carnival. Derby Day is the purists' and fashion day, Cup Day the great public occasion, Oaks Day the ladies' day and Stakes Day the relaxed family close. Trains run direct to Flemington's own station, and general admission lawns put you close to the action.

  • Sport
  • Major Event
When
Four race days around the first Tuesday of November; Melbourne Cup on first Tuesday of November
How often
Every year
Venue
Flemington Racecourse
Crowd
Approx. 250,000-300,000 across four race days
Entry
Paid
Setting
Outdoor
Public holiday
Melbourne Cup Day (VIC public holiday)
Flemington RacecourseApprox. 250,000-300,000 across four race daysOfficial event site

Dates shown follow the event's typical pattern; exact dates change each year, so confirm on the official site before booking travel.

Getting there by bus

Tell us where you're starting from and we'll find coach options to Melbourne. We’ve prefilled the usual event date; adjust it to suit your plans.

One-way trip

Fares and timetables are confirmed on the operator's site before you book.

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