Horsing Around on Melbourne Cup Day 2014

It’s neigh-ly here, folks! (See what we did there?) Melbourne Cup Day is coming our way – the first of the public holidays of the party season – and today, Chisholm & Gamon present to you a game-plan of how best to enjoy your day at the racing carnival. Whether you’re looking forward to the fillies, the fashion or simply a sleep in and a day at home – we’ll help you plan for a memorable Melbourne Cup Day.

The Race That Stops A Nation

One of the world’s most famous racing days, the Melbourne Cup is an event that should be on your bucket list. Do it once, do it right! A festival that mixes elite equestrian sport with a celebration of culture and fashion in spring, it is not called ‘the race that stops a nation’ for nothing. Buy your tickets as a regular punter to attend Flemington on the day – there’ll be a bit of a squash and some memorable people watching to enjoy in between the odd punt – but that’s part of the fun. Importantly – bring your sunblock, brolly and something warm – Melbourne is as fickle a dame as fate, so be prepared for any eventuality. Top up your Myki too, as public transport to and from the Melbourne Cup at Fleming is the best option (unless you have a helicopter, that is).

Fashions On The Field … and Celebrity Spotting

If you’re fortunate enough to nab an invite to one of the lavish marquees at ‘The Birdcage’, you’ll be sure to bump into a celebrity or two. Past celebrity guests who have visited the Melbourne Cup Carnival include Dita Von Teese, Paris Hilton, Snoop Dogg, Coco Rocha and Nicole Kidman – so to fit in with the fashionisti here and in ‘The Nursery’, dress to impress to attract the paparazzi to your unique style. Feeling brave? Try your hand at the famous Fashions on the Field event – click here for entry details – and don’t forget to wear your yellow rose, the official raceday flower of the Melbourne Cup.

Country Races

Don’t fancy the idea of an over-the-top race day? Perhaps you have kids and would prefer a more low-key racing event. Consider attending the race day at the Yarra Valley Racing Club or the Darley Seymour Cup – both fun events to attend for racing with country flair. They’re both easy driving distance (under an hour and a half from the city), and are a fun way to enjoy the races without the huge crowds of the city.