Derby Day

Derby Day is a popular thoroughbred horse race held annually as part of the Spring Racing Carnival at Flemington Racecourse.

Derby Day is always held on the Saturday before the Melbourne Cup.

As one of the most prestigious days of spring racing, this is a must-attend event for racing fans. It features four exceptional Group 1 races.

The Penfolds Victoria Derby headlines a day widely regarded as a racing purist’s dream. An undercard brimming with quality, every race is group level.

The traditional black and white theme once again takes pride of place, showcasing the unstoppable elegance of Australia’s fashion capital. When it comes to the races themselves, prepare to be blown away by the sheer power and grace of the majestic thoroughbreds as they compete for glory. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the excitement and glamour of a true Melbourne tradition.

The fashion attractions around the grounds will equal the incredible action on the track. A black-and-white theme will provide fashion colour guidance for ladies. At the same time, gentlemen will don their sartorial best, featuring their take on elegant blacks, greys, and complementary touches.

There are nine races on the day and four Group One races. Importantly, the winner of the Lexus Stakes gains entry to the race that stops the nation, the Melbourne Cup, which is held the following Tuesday.

The feature races of the day are:

• $2m Group 1 Penfolds Victoria Derby (2500m)
• $2m Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m)
• $1m Group 1 TAB Empire Rose Stakes (1600m)

Thousands of racegoers flock to Flemington Racecourse for this massive race day dressed in their most exquisite black and white ensembles, with prizes for best dressed in a prestigious fashion show.

Food and drinks can be purchased for those attending the event; however, many racegoers bring a picnic to the venue. Betting is a favourite past-time, so bring some extra cash to place a bet on Australia’s biggest races. ATMs are available inside the racecourse; however, due to the large crowds, lines are often long.

General Admission

Your General Admission ticket also includes The Park – where you can enjoy all the live music acts on The Live Stage, Fashions on the Field, Melbourne’s best food trucks, refreshing drinks and relaxed seating areas in front of the big screen.

• Free entry to The Park – enjoy Melbourne’s best pop-up restaurants serving delicious takeaway as the live racing action continues on the big screen.
• Access to the Fashion Garden, home of Flemington’s iconic Fashions on the Field competition.
• Access to The Park Live Stage, with some of Australia’s hottest musicians headlining each day of Carnival.
• The Club Lawn Hotel provides access to the famous Flemington Front Lawn, which features racing action and delicious bites.

Getting There

Public transport to the event is plentiful, with trains that run direct and trams stopping only a short walk away. Special trains run directly to Flemington Racecourse on race days. Trains to Flemington Racecourse depart at Flinders Street Station, Southern Cross Station and North Melbourne Station. You can also catch the #57 Maribyrnong tram from the Elizabeth Street/Flinders Street intersection and alight at Flemington Drive.

Dress Code

The official flower for Victoria Derby Day is the Blue Cornflower. Upon arrival in Flemington, you can purchase it from flower sellers near the entrances.

There are no dress regulations for general admission ticket holders. However, for a fun day at the races, wear your favourite casual or race-day attire.