Cup Day is the most important day on the Australian Racing calendar. It is said that Australia built its economy on the back of it's vast land. Throughout the country in most towns around Australia there is still or there used to be a pub and a racecourse. People would work hard during the week, and then at the end of the working week they would unwind by seeing who had the fastest horse followed by a few drinks at the pub. It was part of the culture.
Now, over time, a lot of towns have lost their racecourses but for those that do, the biggest race on any towns calendar is the Cup. There are a few famous ones that have lost a little lustre like, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide Cups etc. But the biggest of them all is the Melbourne Cup and it has got stronger and more famous. Fashion plays a big part with people dressing up for fun and fair. So get with the party, dress to impress, get to the horse races and enjoy.
To help, we have listings of various cup events like cup lunches or dinners or parties for whatever you wish to do around the nation. Enjoy!
Cup Day News
Cup Day lunch and after party updates from restaurants and hotels that have events to get together at and celebrate Cup Day around Australia.
Melbourne Cup Day will be celebrated on Tuesday November 3rd 2026 all around Australia. Giddy up!
- August 06, 2026 - The Melbourne Cup crowns champions, but their legacy doesn't stop at the finish line. Discover how past winners like Makybe Diva found new purpose beyond the track.
- August 01, 2026 - Jean Shrimpton shocked in 1965. Princess Diana dazzled in 1985. Today, bold colour reigns. Discover the best Melbourne Cup fashion moments.
- July 25, 2026 - Host a Classy Cup Day Lunch on a Budget! Here's how to celebrate the race that stops a nation—without stopping your wallet.
- July 16, 2026 - From colonial beginnings to a global spectacle, the Melbourne Cup has captured hearts for over 160 years. Explore the fascinating history of the race that stops a nation.
Horse Races, Fashion and Fun Things to do
Great things to do over the Cup Day, Cup Eve and Weekend of the Melbourne Cup on the First Tuesday in November.
For the best event and accommodation ideas check below.
Cup Day, Cup Eve and Weekend - The Melbourne Cup ... It's the race that stops the nation.
- Sydney » Searock Grill
- Melbourne » Ludlow
- Melbourne » Hophaus
- Melbourne » Young & Jackson
- Perth » The Vines Resort
Spring Sales with cup day bargains.
Sale suggestions over the Spring period. Spring Racing Specials galore! 