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Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup is a house race held annually on the first Tuesday of November. It celebrates horse racing and the unity of horse lovers and everyone else in the scene. From those who love races, to those who love betting grounds, there's something for everyone to get excited about. It's observed everywhere in Victoria. It's one of the biggest holidays in Victoria. Observers aren't restricted to citizens of Victoria, though. It's broadcasted to approximately 600 million viewers on television. Those who can't observe in person will make time to see the races in television, or radio broadcasts.

Upcoming Dates For Melbourne Cup Day

Melbourne Cup Day is observed throughout Victoria. There are some other territories that celebrate the day, but not to the same extent. They aren't offered the day off to observe the festivities. In Victoria, Melbourne Cup Day is a holiday. Here are the upcoming dates:

  • Tuesday, November 7, 2017
  • Tuesday, November 6, 2018
  • Tuesday, November 5, 2019
  • Tuesday, November 3, 2020
  • Tuesday, November 2, 2021
  • Tuesday, November 1, 2022
  • Tuesday, November 7, 2023
  • Tuesday, November 5, 2024
  • Tuesday, November 5, 2025

Festivities & Events During Melbourne Cup Day

The Melbourne Cup is known for an assortment of characters. Many people dress up and head out to the festivities. There are bright colors everywhere, and even fashion parades. There are refreshments at the track, of course. There is also a betting ground for those who want to take a chance on a bet. After all, a holiday is the best time to take that chance! The festivities cotinue to stretch far beyond the track as well. It's common that offices will have parties to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day. These parties will include dressing up, and even low betting on the races. Of course, at the track betting can get serious. But it's part of the fun of the holiday. Always make sure to plan ahead, especially for transportation to and from the event!

Where Is Melbourne Cup Day Considered A Holiday?

Although many offices are still open on Melbourne Cup Day, workers will listen into the races, even at work. Many offices and stores close down to allow citizens to observe the races. It's only officially a holiday in Victoria, but other cities observe the festivities. There may be a traffic jam around the time of the races, from so many people trying to get to the track. If your holiday planning includes watching the race, make sure to get there early!

A Brief History Of Melbourne Cup Day

The first Melbourne Cup was at the Flemington Racecourse in 1861. It was given the official holiday title in 1877. Although there are many other horse races throughout Australia, Melbourne Cup is the most widely celebrated. Simply put, it is another great horse race to celebrate a great nation and bring together the citizens. It's all about coming together as a culture and watching great entertainment. There are many chances to meet new people and socialize. After all, it's become one of the most social events!