Your Complete Guide to the Melbourne Cup 2025
The Melbourne Cup is Australia's most prestigious racing event, bringing together world-class thoroughbreds, high fashion, and electric entertainment in one spectacular celebration. This spring racing carnival transforms Melbourne into the racing capital of the world, with the entire city embracing the excitement of "the race that stops a nation."Whether you're a racing enthusiast, fashion lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable social experience, this iconic event delivers thrills both on and off the track.
In this Blog
Why Is The Melbourne Cup "The Race That Stops The Nation"?
Credit: Victoria Racing ClubThe Melbourne Cup stands as one of Australia's premier sporting events, and one of the world's most celebrated horse races. Running since 1861, the event captivates millions of Australians and international visitors each year.The race earned its legendary "stops a nation" reputation through decades of tradition. At 3:20 PM on Melbourne Cup Day, offices across Australia pause, radios tune in, and families gather around televisions to witness two minutes of racing history. The Cup's rich history includes legendary horses like Phar Lap, Makybe Diva's historic three consecutive wins, and countless memorable moments that have shaped Australian sporting culture.
The race distance of 3,200 metres tests the world's finest stayers, attracting international horses and jockeys who compete for the coveted trophy and substantial prize money.Beyond the racing, the Melbourne Cup has become synonymous with fashion, fine dining, and social celebration, making it a unique cultural event like no other.
When Is the 2025 Melbourne Cup?
The 2025 Melbourne Cup takes place on Tuesday, 4th November 2025 at Flemington Racecourse. The race day forms the centrepiece of the week-long Spring Racing Carnival, which brings together four spectacular race meetings across eight action-packed days.The complete spring racing carnival dates for 2025 include:
- Victoria Derby Day: Saturday, 1st November 2025
- Lexus Melbourne Cup Day: Tuesday, 4th November 2025
- Crown Oaks Day: Thursday, 6th November 2025
- TAB Champions Stakes: Saturday, 8th November 2025
Each day offers its own unique atmosphere. Derby Day kicks off the carnival with traditional black and white fashion, Crown Oaks Day celebrates the finest fillies, and Champions Stakes provides a thrilling finale to the carnival.
What to Expect During the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival
The 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival has been completely reimagined with exciting new precincts bringing fashion, food, and entertainment closer to the trackside action. After welcoming over 285,000 patrons last year, Flemington has stepped up its game with fresh spaces designed to give everyone the ultimate carnival experience.
Flemington Racecourse Precinct & Family Zones
The Park has transformed into a family-friendly wonderland. Meet racing legends at the Living Legends Homestead pop-up, enjoy Devonshire tea and famous scones, plus dive into immersive experiences and entertainment designed specifically for little ones.Meanwhile, The Elms brings international music stars to the Live Stage, plus iconic food and beverage options. All this entertainment comes with your General Admission ticket, making it incredible value.For a unique experience, the new TAB Clubhouse opens up the infield to the public for the first time in years. You'll get right next to the winning post with an all-day food and beverage package, making it one of the best spots on the track.
Fashions on the Field
Fashions on the Field has returned home to its original prime position on the Club Lawn, right among the buzzing front lawn action and close to The Birdcage. The all-new enclosed stage puts the style and glamour front and centre where it belongs.Daily categories include everything from Millinery Awards to Vintage, with serious cash prizes and bragging rights up for grabs.
Victoria Derby Day Highlights
Victoria Derby Day launches the carnival with Australia's premier three-year-old race. This 2,500-metre test identifies future champions and often serves as a stepping stone to Melbourne Cup glory.The day's distinctive black and white dress code creates a sophisticated setting. The elegant tradition dates back decades and produces some of the carnival's most photographed fashion moments.
Crown Oaks Day Traditions
Crown Oaks Day celebrates the finest three-year-old fillies in Australia and New Zealand, with the namesake race serving as the fillies' equivalent to the Victoria Derby. This 2,500-metre race often features future breeding stars and champions.The day calls for slightly more relaxed dress standards than Derby Day. Traditional Ladies' Lunches and afternoon tea events are a must for anyone looking to soak up the full carnival experience.Crown Oaks Day typically attracts smaller, more intimate crowds, allowing for a more relaxed carnival experience while maintaining the high-quality racing and entertainment standards of the other events.
TAB Champions Stakes Finale
The TAB Champions Stakes provides a spectacular finale to the spring racing carnival with the richest mile race in the Southern Hemisphere. This Group 1 contest attracts international horses and Australia's finest milers for a thrilling conclusion.The day features multiple Group races, creating a full program of elite-level racing. The Champions Stakes often determines year-end awards and provides a final opportunity for horses to secure major prize money before the season's end.Post-race celebrations continue well into the evening, with live entertainment and premium dining options keeping the carnival atmosphere alive until late.
Where to Stay for Melbourne Cup 2025
Dorsett Melbourne provides the perfect base for your Melbourne Cup 2025 experience, combining comfortable accommodation with unbeatable convenience. The hotel's prime Little Lonsdale Street location places you within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, where dedicated Cup Day trains provide direct service to Flemington. Alternatively, trams and buses offer regular services throughout race week. See all of the Flemington transport options here.Dorsett Melbourne's spacious, modern rooms provide a comfortable retreat after big days on the course, while also putting you close to Melbourne's best restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues for your complete carnival experience.The hotel's Jin Bar offers the perfect setting for pre-race champagne or post-race celebrations, while Little Jin Coffee ensures you start each carnival day with Melbourne's finest coffee and pastries.
Book Your Stay Today & Save
Take advantage of Dorsett Melbourne's 'Made For Spring' offer and save up to 27%* on your Melbourne Cup 2025 accommodation. This special promotion is available on stays from 25th September 2025 through 28th February 2026, covering the entire Spring Racing Carnival period.Your spring savings package includes exceptional value and premium services:
- Complimentary early check-in from 10:00 AM and late check-out until noon, subject to availability
- Discounted valet parking at $60 per day (must be pre-booked through reservations)
- 15% discount on your entire bill at Jin Bar
This limited-time offer must be booked before 27th November 2025. With Melbourne Cup accommodation typically booking out months in advance, early reservation is essential.Book your Melbourne Cup stay today and take advantage of our exclusive spring offer.
FAQs About the Melbourne Cup
How much does it cost to enter the Melbourne Cup?
Melbourne Cup ticket prices vary significantly based on location and package selection. General admission tickets typically start around $120 for adults, while premium viewing areas and hospitality packages range from $200-500+ per person. Premium hospitality packages including food, beverages, and exclusive areas can exceed $500-1000 per person.Tickets for children aged 12-17 start from $36, while those under 12 get free entry. All must be accompanied by adults. Click here to browse the options and secure yours.
Is the Melbourne Cup always on a Tuesday?
Yes, the Melbourne Cup always takes place on the first Tuesday in November, maintaining a tradition established in 1876. The 2025 Melbourne Cup falls on Tuesday, 4th November, continuing this long-standing scheduling.The consistent scheduling helps the nation plan their annual "stop" to watch the race at 3:20 PM AEDT.The first Tuesday in November timing also coincides with Melbourne's beautiful spring weather, providing ideal conditions for outdoor racing and festivities at Flemington Racecourse.
What do you wear to the Melbourne Cup 2025?
Melbourne Cup fashion varies by enclosure and personal style preferences. General admission areas welcome smart casual to formal attire, while premium enclosures typically require more formal dress standards.Men traditionally wear suits with ties, though dress codes have relaxed in recent years. Women often choose elegant dresses, sophisticated separates, and statement headwear including fascinators or hats.Each carnival day has its own fashion traditions - Derby Day features black and white dress codes in certain areas, while Cup Day allows full colour expression. Comfortable shoes are essential given the extensive walking throughout Flemington Racecourse during the day.
