From the excitement of Derby Day to the famous Melbourne Cup, the style of Oaks Day and the relaxed finale of Stakes Day, the Melbourne Cup Carnival brings four unforgettable race days to Flemington. Explore the racing, fashion, celebrations and experiences that make Cup Week one of Australia's great sporting and social occasions.
From the opening Saturday to the final race day, each part of the Melbourne Cup Carnival has its own character. Melbourne Cup Day may be the main event, but Derby Day, Oaks Day and Stakes Day each bring their own mix of racing, fashion and Flemington tradition. Explore the four major race days of Cup Week 2026.
3 November 2026
At the heart of the Melbourne Cup Carnival is the day that captures the attention of the nation. Melbourne Cup Day combines Australia's most famous horse race with spectacular fashion, Flemington hospitality and celebrations in venues, workplaces and homes across the country. Discover everything you need to plan and enjoy Cup Day 2026.
Explore Melbourne Cup Day
31 October 2026
The Melbourne Cup Carnival begins with Derby Day, combining elite racing with its famous black-and-white dress code. Discover the racing, fashion and traditions that make Saturday at Flemington such a distinctive opening to Cup Week.
Explore Derby Day
5 November 2026
Oaks Day puts fashion firmly in the spotlight alongside another major day of racing at Flemington. Discover the racewear, racing and social atmosphere that give this Thursday of the Melbourne Cup Carnival its distinctive style.
Explore Oaks Day
7 November 2026
Stakes Day brings Cup Week to a close with quality racing and a more relaxed Flemington atmosphere. Discover the racing, fashion and celebrations that make the final Saturday a fitting conclusion to the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Explore Stakes DayThe Melbourne Cup Carnival extends well beyond the racecourse. Across Cup Week, Melbourne and cities around Australia come alive with long lunches, race-day parties, fashion events and celebrations built around the racing. Whether you're heading to Flemington or celebrating elsewhere, Cup Day is an occasion to make your own.
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