It’s the race that stops a nation.
A patriotic display of strength and triumph.
A race that not only permeates the minds of people all over Australia but also sits firmly on the international stage.
Yes, we’re talking about the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
If you’re thinking that this is the year for you to hear the rumble at the Melbourne Cup Carnival we know you might be feeling slightly overwhelmed. There is a seemingly never-ending list of ways to experience the big day. Ohh, and not to mention multiple race days and multiple marquees to add to the mix. So, we thought we would put together a guide on the Melbourne Cup Carnival to make your decision a little easier. You can view this guide as your answer to getting the most out of your adventure.
Melbourne Cup Carnival Racing Days & Dates
Penfolds Victoria Derby Day
Date: 30 October 2021
Location: Flemington Race Course
Perfect for: the fashion inclined, big stakes.
Penfolds Victoria Derby Day attracts 4 high paying Group 1 races and is our pick for those chasing big stakes. This one features the $2 million Kennedy Cantala, $1.5 million Coolmore Stud Stakes, $1 million Empire Rose Stakes and the day’s showpiece – the $2 million Penfolds Victoria Derby. If betting isn’t your cup of tea, we recommend a trip to the Myer Fashions on the Field marquee. This year sees the addition of a sleek black and white theme.
Lexus Melbourne Cup Day
Date: 2 November 2021
Location: Flemington Race Course
Perfect for: prestigious experiences, iconic moments, exclusive marquees.
The main event. The day of days. Lexus Melbourne Cup Day is clearly our top pick (and for good reason). We’re talking about 100,000 people barracking for the next big winner etching their name in history. Nothing really compares to the feeling of excitement that comes from this amount of people coming together to celebrate a new legend being crowned.
Kennedy Oaks Day
Date: 4 November 2021
Location: Flemington Race Course
Perfect for: fashion, the ladies.
Commonly known as ‘Ladies Day’, Kennedy Oaks Day celebrates creativity, style, millinery design and not to mention fashion. Fashion takes centre stage with a heavy focus on looks that can stop the paparazzi dead in their tracks. Previous years have seen some of Australia’s top designers showing off their designs across the day. This is our selection for those chasing fashion and a head-turning people-watching experience.
MacKinnon Stakes Day
Date: 6 November 2021
Location: Flemington Race Course
Perfect for: family-friendly experiences, relaxed atmosphere.
Seppelt Wines Stakes Day rounds out the Melbourne Cup Carnival by bringing to the table a more relaxed feel, perfect for families looking to experience the carnival. Mind you, when we say relaxed, each year still attracts 80,000+ people, however, this offering includes a more chilled approach with open lawns and public spaces. There is still lots of racing on the cards too, with the feature race attracting an AUD $2 million Group 1 prize, testing the best middle-distance horses from across the world.
How to get to Flemington for the Melbourne Cup Carnival
During the Melbourne Cup Carnival, getting to Flemington can be a relatively hectic experience. We recommend giving yourself some extra time, remembering there will be about 100,000 others heading for Flemington on the big day.
Trains to Flemington Race Course
Special trains run directly to Flemington Racecourse on every race day. Flemington Racecourse-bound trains depart Flinders Street Station and/or Southern Cross Station, stopping at North Melbourne Station, then express to Flemington Racecourse. All train services are wheelchair accessible and passengers who need help boarding trains should wait on the platform near the front of the train.
Trams to Flemington Race Course
From the corner of Elizabeth Street and Flinders Street catch the No. 57 West Maribyrnong tram to Flemington Drive (stop 30). Please note, low-floor trams do not run on Route 57 and it is therefore recommended passengers using a mobility aid should catch the train to the racecourse.
Buses to Flemington Race Course
Catch Route 472 bus from Williamstown, Footscray or Moonee Ponds to Fisher Parade. Enter Flemington Racecourse via Riverbank entrance. Catch Route 404 bus from Footscray or Moonee Ponds to Smithfield Road. Enter Flemington Racecourse via Stables Drive entrance.
Ride-share to Flemington Race Course
Another option is to jump in a variety of rideshare options such as Uber, Di-Di and Ola. A word of warning though, you may get jammed in some pretty intense traffic as you get closer to the track.
What to Wear to the Melbourne Cup Carnival
For those that have been living under a rock, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is one part racing and one part fashion. Depending on who you talk to, some say that fashion is more important than the sport itself. If you share this sentiment, looking the part is a must. To ensure you satisfy all the fashion-ground rules, please head to the official Flemington Raceday page. But for a quick summary please follow the following rules if you are in a marquee:
- Gentlemen: suits, please. Tailored chinos are acceptable. Ties are recommended.
- Ladies: Ladies are expected to maintain a suitable standard in keeping with the dignity of the Members Enclosure. They recommend steering clear of short jumpsuits. They also encourage overseas visitors to wear their formal national dress of their country.
- Children: neatly dressed.
However, if you are in the General Admission lawn, the good news is there is no specific dress code. Racegoers are recommended to dress comfortably. This is your realm to express your own sense of style with no restrictions.
Melbourne Cup Carnival Marquees (Our Top Picks)
Ok, so, there are A LOT of marquees to pick from during the Melbourne Cup Carnival. The list below will link you to each type but we’ve also summarized key information to make your life easier. To start with though, please refer to the Flemington Map below to help you locate each marquee.
Home Straight Enclosure
Dining & Beverages: sparkling, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: elevated track views.
Location: infield location.
Entertainment: outdoor area and live entertainment.
Take your place right in the centre of the action, as you step up to an elevated viewing platform overlooking the racetrack in this privileged infield position at the Home Straight Enclosure. An exquisite dining experience, plus the roar of the horses and the entire Melbourne Cup Carnival crowd behind them, is sure to make your group’s day – even their year!
Makybe Diva Marquee
Dining & Beverages: three-course lunch and afternoon tea. Beverages include sparking, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: elevated track views.
Location: hill next to the Lawn Stand.
Entertainment: outdoor area and live entertainment.
Thundering hooves. Pounding hearts and Unmissable action and history in the making. The Maybe Diva Marquee, offers prime viewing areas and stunning dining and beverage options.
Panorama Restaurant
Dining & Beverages: three-course lunch and afternoon tea. Beverages include sparking, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: undercovered raised view.
Location: located in the hill stand overlooking the Winning Post.
A Panorama like no other. Take your seat (reserved and undercover) and take in some of the best views anywhere. This lunch-plus-beverage package option gives you the perfect spot to watch the race winners come in, with the city as your backdrop, and the energy of the Hill Stand all around. In 2021, the Panorama Restaurant is the place to be.
Parade Lounge
Dining & Beverages: grazing menu served throughout the day. Beverages include sparking, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: outdoor balcony area.
Location: located next to the horse stalls overlooking the parade ring.
Picture yourself gazing directly into the Flemington Parade Ring as the world’s greatest thoroughbreds prepare to give it their all on the track right in front. The Parade Lounge is a racing venue like no other, this Melbourne Cup hospitality package offers a front-and-centre position for true horse and racing lovers.
Skyline Restaurant
Dining & Beverages: three-course lunch with afternoon tea. Beverages include sparking, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: outdoor balcony area with views over the Winning Post.
Location: Hill stand overlooking the Winning Post.
Rise high above it all — but still never far from where the celebration is happening. Skyline Restaurant will place your group in an unbeatable position overlooking the Winning Post. As you take in the track and racing action in front of you, you’ll also be treated to a delicious and refreshing lunch-and-beverage package, with table seating and waiter service.
The Perch
Dining & Beverages: grazing menu throughout the day. Beverages include G.H Mumm Champaign, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: elevated marquee view of the track on the final turn.
Location: in the Bird Cage.
Entertainment: DJ.
Celebrities, style, sophistication and sass. That defines The Birdcage and it also sums up what’s in store for you when you take your place in The Perch. This elevated marquee will have you rubbing elbows with the famous and infamous as you stroll the famous ‘streets’ of The Birdcage. And like The Birdcage, your marquee will have it all – amazing food, flowing drinks and a house DJ to keep the party vibes going strong.
The Rose Room
Dining & Beverages: five-course lunch with afternoon tea. Beverages include sparking, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: multi-tier venue with sweeping views of the track and city.
Location: home stretch close to the winning post.
The Rose Room is a Melbourne Cup institution that exudes luxury, quality and fun. The sweeping views are rivalled only by the stunning races. Not a single detail has been overlooked, ensuring your daylong celebration of sophistication and style comes off exactly as planned. Enjoy table service, a 5-course lunch, and all-day beverages, all amongst a pristine and elegant setting. It’s time to make The Rose Room your Melbourne Cup tradition.
The Stayers Lounge
Dining & Beverages: grazing menu throughout the day. Beverages include spirits, wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: balcony with track views.
Location: infield location.
Entertainment: DJ.
The party starts at The Stayers Lounge. Your position infield of the famous Flemington track is the ideal spot to get the party pumping. Join a buzzing crowd in the outdoor area, where live entertainment will keep you grooving all day before you head back to your private balcony marquee. The grazing menu will fill you up while the drinks package will cool you down.
Terrace Restaurant
Dining & Beverages:7 course degustation. Beverages include wine, beer and soft drinks.
View: balcony with track views.
Location: Hill Stand.
This is Melbourne Cup Carnival dining with a difference. You won’t know where to look first, as The Terrace lives up to its name, looking out over the famed Flemington track, and delivering stunning views of the dramatic city skyline beyond. This table-service dining package will make it an event to remember, featuring a surprising degustation menu served to every table. The Terrace offers an experience that few others will ever get to enjoy.
And there we have it. We hope this answers your questions and helps you plan your Melbourne Cup Carnival. As always, we are on board to help plan your travel. This can include tickets, marquees, flight, accommodation, transfers, cultural events etc. The best bit is you can now book these packages online. Head to our online booking system to secure your spot.
