Ah, the Melbourne Cup. The annual excuse for drinking and gambling which most other countries would find hard to believe is on the middle of the day, on a Tuesday. Now in saying that, it truly does stop the nation – and if you’re in need of a venue we’ve got ‘ya covered. Whether it’s a quick for a quick punt, drink or multiple hour excuse to get out of the office or uni, here are our picks across the country.
Sydney – Fiesta @ El Camino Cantina
Trade in the sparkling wine and fascinators for margaritas and sombreros. Head down to El Camino Cantina in The Rocks for their ‘Spontaneous Fiesta’ and celebrate this year’s Melbourne Cup, Mexican style!
If you’re looking for something a little more casual with great vibes, El Camino Cantina will take care of you. A Tex-Mex fiesta package for just $99 will get you four hours, I repeat, four hours of canapés as well as unlimited Maragarita, craft beer, cider, wine and champers. There’s also a build your own Taco station. It’s sure to be a popular one, so get in early and bring your amigos. Grab the deets here.
Perth – Market Grounds
Celebrate the races in style and head down to the heart of the action for a day of fashion and entertainment at Perth’s prime Melbourne Cup event. Indulge in all the food (and drinks) you could ask for and enjoy the party. $79 will get you bottomless drinks and canapés including fresh oysters and scallops. Feel like splashing out for something ultra-fancy? Head to the booths and get two bottles of Moet, a dozen fresh oysters, charcuterie and cheese board as well as a $200 bar tab. Either way, this is bound to be the event of the season, kicking on ’till late. Get more info here.
Brisbane – Canadian Club Melbourne Cup Day @ Doomben Racecourse
In Brisbane? Saddle up and get right into the action, almost as if you were watching the Cup live. The Racecourse will be screening the race whilst holding a few of their own, so you’ll get a real taste of the atmosphere. Don your best race day dress or suit and get down to Ascot for live tunes, pop up bars, food trucks and fashions of the field.
General admission starts at $25, and there are heaps of packages ranging from $99 to $380. Events are selling out fast so grab your tickets quick.
Adelaide – The Mile End
Kick back at The Mile End with some sweet deals to ease you into the celebrations. Sit down to a three course lunch for $50, or just simply order off the a la carte menu. Then sit back to DJ’s playing some vinyl retro tunes through the afternoon. Plus, pints will be just $7 all day, and there’ll be $10 gin cocktails flowing. Book here to avoid missing out.
Melbourne – Cup Day @ The Imperial
There’s no better place to be in Melbourne on the big day than Melbourne’s third oldest pub. Apart from Flemington itself, of course. They’re holding events over the major days including Derby Day, Oaks Day and Stakes Day, so if you’re not free on the day, you can still catch the celebrations.
For $60 on Tuesday, you can score yourself a bottle of prosecco and a dozen oysters to share with ya’ mates.. or not. Book a table here quick, events are selling out fast.
Canberra – Thoroughbred Park
For a more traditional race-day, join the avid racing fans, fashionistas and socialites on the field at Thoroughbred Park. It will be the perfect place to enjoy the Melbourne Cup in the nations capital. With all festivities live on the big screen whilst being surrounded by the excitement of the local races, you’re not likely to get bored here. Fancy yourself a snappy dresser? Get amongst the Fashions On The Field for a chance to walk away with a tonne of fab prizes. Thoroughbred Park has also put together some pretty impressive race day packages sure to keep you well fed and hydrated, so whatever your budget you can celebrate the day in style. It’s also good to note that there will also be free bus services from the Park from 4.00pm to 7.30pm, just in case you have a little too good a time.
Image Source: El Camino Cantina, Doomben Racecourse, The Imperial Hotel
