Four Days of Food, Fashion and Drinks: What to Expect From This Year’s Caulfield Cup Carnival

The Caulfield Cup Carnival is back for 2023. Throughout several Saturdays in spring, expect an abundance of food, fashion and world-class racing. The carnival opens October 14 with Neds Caulfield Guineas, and a further three Group 1 races taking place over the following days. Prepare to get caught up in the action of the main event – the Carlton Draught Caulfield Cup – on October 21. Later in spring, you can let your hair down at the Schweppes Caulfield Thousand on November 18. Finally, the Caulfield Spring Finale presented by Whispering Angel on December 2 rounds out the spring racing season, with Hayden James recently announced as the headlining performer.

You don’t need to be a long-time racing avid to enjoy the festivities – the trackside food, fashion and fun lasts well into the night.

If you’re planning on going for the food, Black Caviar Restaurant is open for bookings for its six-course fine-dining degustation lunch, complete with an award-winning wine list and stellar views of the track. The Avenue, the premium hospitality precinct, offers a little bit of luxury with the stylish Bar Aperitivo by Tanqueray and Champagne House by Moet & Chandon – both venues feature all-inclusive gourmet grazing menus and premium beverage packages as well as live entertainment in elevated trackside marquees with views of the racecourse. The Neds Level is another trackside option, with food trucks, beverages, screens and all-day DJs.

But it’s not all champagne and canapes. This year, the Food Lane precinct has drawn some of Melbourne’s favourite vendors to the track to sate the appetites of racegoers. Royal Stacks will be there with loaded burgers, while local institution DOC slings freshly-fired artisan pizzas. Moonfishh offers lighter Japanese fare and Daniel’s Donuts has the sweet treats covered. And for drinks, you can lounge in the Lawn Bar or hit the Sips & Slushies bar in the Wilderland precinct and cool off with frozen cocktails.

Of course, fashion is another big focus this year and the Style Stakes competition takes it to new heights. Roaming street-style photographers are on the lookout all day for the best looks, with a $20,000 grand prize up for grabs. The photographers will be looking for those dressed with some individuality and flair, so be sure to pull out all the stops for the chance to win.

There will also be a main performance stage playing host to all-day programs of live acts, ranging from DJs and live music, as well as “glitter gypsies” bejeweling those members of the crowd looking to up their festival vibe. It will culminate in a headline slot from Sydney producer Hayden James on Saturday December 2, to close out the Caulfield Spring Finale presented by Whispering Angel with a dance party.

Single day passes or season tickets are on offer. See more information and get your tickets.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Melbourne Racing Club. The full program for the Caulfield Spring Finale has been announced, featuring headliner Hayden James. Tickets are available now.