The Melbourne Spring Carnival is the premier event in Australia’s horse racing calendar, attracting the world’s best horses, jockeys, and trainers to the Victorian capital, Melbourne. The carnival, held across various iconic racecourses including Flemington, Caulfield and Moonee Valley, is a celebration of fashion, culture, and, most importantly, elite horse racing. It’s an event that captures the hearts of racegoers and sports enthusiasts alike, from seasoned punters to those simply caught up in the party atmosphere.
At the core of the Spring Carnival are its prestigious races, culminating in world-renowned events such as the Melbourne Cup, Cox Plate, and Caulfield Cup. Each race day brings with it some of the world’s best thoroughbreds competing for glory on the turf. As a race fan, the Spring Carnival offers a chance to witness unforgettable moments in racing history.
Beyond the thrill of racing, the Spring Carnival is an experience that draws on the rich heritage of the sport. The Melbourne Cup, famously known as “the race that stops a nation,” is just one of many highlights. From the elegance of Derby Day to the conclusion of Stakes Day, the entire carnival is a journey through Australia’s most celebrated racing traditions.
The 2024 Spring Carnival promises to be bigger and better than ever. With the latest in racing fashion on display, gourmet food, and a vibrant social scene, the event is a must-attend for anyone who loves racing or just enjoys a good time. Join Betseeker in celebrating the pinnacle of Australian racing as the country gears up for another year of unforgettable moments on the track.
Whether you’re an avid punter looking for the best betting tips or simply looking to enjoy a day at the races, Betseeker has you covered with comprehensive race previews, expert tips, and in-depth insights across all key race meets for the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.
Key Spring Carnival Meetings and Dates
- Caulfield Guineas – Saturday, October 12, 2024
A prestigious mile race for three-year-olds, the Caulfield Guineas is where emerging stars take their first steps toward greatness. Held over 1600m, this race often produces champions that go on to dominate the Australian racing scene. - Caulfield Cup – Saturday, October 19, 2024
One of the world’s richest handicap races over 2400m, the Caulfield Cup is a key lead-up race to the Melbourne Cup. It attracts top-tier local and international horses, making it one of the most competitive staying races of the season - Cox Plate – Saturday, October 26, 2024
Held at Moonee Valley, this weight-for-age championship over 2040m is a true test of class and is often referred to as Australia’s best weight-for-age race. - Victoria Derby – Saturday, November 2, 2024
The premier staying event for three-year-olds, the Victoria Derby is run over 2500m and is a feature of the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. As one of the oldest races in Australia, it holds a special place in the nation’s racing tradition, testing the endurance and talent of future stars. - Melbourne Cup – Tuesday, November 5, 2024
The crown jewel of the Spring Carnival, this 3200m race at Flemington is one of the most prestigious and eagerly anticipated events in world sport. As the “race that stops a nation,” it draws attention from racing fans and casual observers alike, both in Australia and around the globe. - Oaks Day – Thursday, November 7, 2024
Known as Ladies’ Day, Oaks Day showcases both fashion and elite racing with the Kennedy Oaks as the centerpiece. This 2500m race for three-year-old fillies is a true test of stamina and class. - Stakes Day – Saturday, November 9, 2024
The perfect conclusion to the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Stakes Day is a family-friendly affair, headlined by the Champions Sprint.
These dates form the backbone of the carnival, with each event showcasing a unique blend of world-class racing and vibrant social atmosphere. Whether you’re at Caulfield for the Guineas or Flemington for the Melbourne Cup, every moment is filled with excitement and intensity. It’s a spectacle where passion meets prestige, creating unforgettable memories for all who attend.
Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival – Group One Racing Calendar
| Date | Group 1 Race | Distance | Track | Prize |
| Sep 14, 2024 | Makybe Diva Stakes | 1600m | Flemington | $750,000 |
| Sep 21, 2024 | Underwood Stakes | 1800m | Caulfield | $750,000 |
| Sep 27, 2024 | Manikato Stakes | 1200m | Moonee Valley | $2,000,000 |
| Oct 5, 2024 | Turnbull Stakes | 2000m | Flemington | $500,000 |
| Oct 12, 2024 | Caulfield Guineas | 1600m | Caulfield | $3,000,000 |
| Oct 12, 2024 | Might And Power Stakes | 2000m | Caulfield | $1,000,000 |
| Oct 12, 2024 | Toorak Handicap | 1600m | Caulfield | $1,000,000 |
| Oct 19, 2024 | Caulfield Cup | 2400m | Caulfield | $5,000,000 |
| Oct 26, 2024 | Cox Plate | 2040m | Moonee Valley | $5,000,000 |
| Nov 2, 2024 | Coolmore Stud Stakes | 1200m | Flemington | $2,000,000 |
| Nov 2, 2024 | Victoria Derby | 2500m | Flemington | $2,000,000 |
| Nov 2, 2024 | Empire Rose Stakes | 1600m | Flemington | $1,000,000 |
| Nov 5, 2024 | Melbourne Cup | 3200m | Flemington | $8,000,000 |
| Nov 7, 2024 | VRC Kennedy Oaks | 2500m | Flemington | $1,000,000 |
| Nov 9, 2024 | Champions Mile | 1600m | Flemington | $3,000,000 |
| Nov 9, 2024 | Champions Stakes | 2000m | Flemington | $3,000,000 |
| Nov 9, 2024 | Champions Sprint | 1200m | Flemington | $3,000,000 |
| Nov 16, 2024 | Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes | 1400m | Caulfield | $500,000 |
| Nov 16, 2024 | Thousand Guineas | 1600m | Caulfield | $1,000,000 |
Be sure to check out Betseeker’s daily racing tips for every race of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.
