Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival 2025: your guide to the biggest race days

When spring hits Melbourne, it means one thing: the city goes racing mad. The Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is one of the largest events on the Australian sporting and social calendar, with last year’s event attracting almost 600,000 people from all over Australia flocking to the city. The carnival is spread across three iconic racecourses, each with its own history: Flemington, Caulfield, and Moonee Valley. Each race day is significant, from the glamour of Derby Day to the thunder of the Melbourne Cup. Keep reading to find out the 7 biggest race days of 2025 and start planning your spring racing experience.

7 biggest race days of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival 2025

Caulfield Guineas – 11 October 2025

The Caulfield Guineas is the start of Melbourne’s big spring races and sets the tone for the weeks ahead. Known as the “stallion-making race”, this 1600m Group 1 is a true test for three-year-olds and often showcases future champions. Four Saturdays before the Melbourne Cup, it’s a day of anticipation and a great taste of the bigger races to come.

Tickets from $30: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/Show.aspx?sh=CAULGUIN25

Caulfield Cup – 18 October 2025

One of Australia’s most historic and prestigious races, the Caulfield Cup draws punters and fans from all over the country. This 2400m Group 1 is a test of stamina and strategy with many winners going on to make an impact in the Melbourne Cup. As one of the carnival’s headline events it attracts big crowds, great fashion, and plenty of excitement.

Tickets from $40: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=CAULCUPD25

Cox Plate – 25 October 2025

Run at Moonee Valley, the Cox Plate is often called the “race where legends are made”. The 2040m Group 1 is a battle of intensity and tactics, producing some of the most thrilling finishes in racing history. A favourite among purists for its mix of speed and endurance, it’s one of the biggest days of the spring calendar.

Tickets from $80: https://www.thevalley.com.au/products/cpc-general-admission

Victoria Derby Day – 1 November 2025

Derby Day is not just about great racing but also iconic style. The 2400m Victoria Derby for three-year-olds is the feature but the whole day is a showcase of top-level racing. Traditionally, the dress code for the day is black and white, which gives the day a classic feel. It also acts as the lead up to the Melbourne Cup, where Flemington is buzzing from morning till night.

Tickets from $66: https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/howden-victoria-derby-day-flemington-pass-flemington-01-11-2025/event/2500625BB01F1CF5

Melbourne Cup Day – 4 November 2025

The Melbourne Cup is the jewel in the crown of the Spring Racing Carnival, famously known as “the race that stops a nation”. The main event is the 3200m race which brings together the world’s best horses and jockeys in a race steeped in history and tradition. More than just a sporting event, Cup Day is a cultural phenomenon that captures the attention of millions, trackside at Flemington and around the world.

Tickets from $120: https://www.vrc.com.au/tickets/?date=2025-11-04

Crown Oaks Day – 6 November 2025

Crown Oaks Day is all about glamour, celebration, and tradition. The feature is the 2500m Crown Oaks, a Group 1 for three-year-old fillies that always delivers. Off the track it’s known as Ladies Day, where women show off their fascinators. Crown Oaks is one of the most colourful days of the carnival.

Tickets from $50: https://www.vrc.com.au/race-days-and-events/2025-2026/crown-oaks-day/

Stakes Day – 8 November 2025

Wrapping up the Spring Racing Carnival is Emirates Stakes Day; a laid-back and family-friendly finale. The feature is the 1600m Group 1 Emirates Stakes, but the atmosphere is all about fun, community, and soaking up the last of the spring racing. With activities for kids, plenty of entertainment and good racing to watch, it’s the perfect way to finish the carnival season.

Tickets from $65: https://www.vrc.com.au/race-days-and-events/2025-2026/tab-champions-stakes-day/

Where to stay for the ultimate Spring Carnival

The Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival is not just about the racing – it’s about the season, the atmosphere, and everything Melbourne has to offer. With Flemington, Caulfield, and Moonee Valley each bringing their own excitement, now is the time to plan your visit. Stay close to the action at Airport Tourist Village Melbourne (ATVM) where comfort meets convenience. Book now and have the perfect base for your 2025 Spring Carnival experience.