2026 Spring Carnival Calendar
Seven Group 1 races across seven weeks — from the Caulfield Guineas in October to Champions Stakes Day in November.
Caulfield Guineas
The premier three-year-old middle-distance race of the spring, run over the classic mile at Caulfield. Attracts the best young horses from Australia and New Zealand and often provides a pointer to future Melbourne Cup contenders.
Caulfield Cup
One of the world's great handicap races, the Caulfield Cup is the major lead-up to the Melbourne Cup. International raiders and local stars clash over 2400m, with the winner often gaining a coveted Melbourne Cup ballot exemption.
Cox Plate
Australia's weight-for-age championship, widely regarded as the most prestigious race in the Southern Hemisphere. Run at the tight Moonee Valley circuit, the Cox Plate demands class, courage and tactical brilliance.
Victoria Derby
Derby Day at Flemington opens the Melbourne Cup Carnival's four-day festival. The Victoria Derby is Australia's premier classic for three-year-olds. Derby Day is also famous for its strict black-and-white dress code.
Melbourne Cup
The race that stops a nation. The Melbourne Cup is a 3200m handicap run on the first Tuesday in November at Flemington. With $8 million in prize money and a global field, it is the world's most famous staying race.
Kennedy Oaks
The Kennedy Oaks — or "Ladies Day" — is for three-year-old fillies only and is as famous for its fashion as its racing. Racegoers are encouraged to dress in pastels and florals, and the millinery on display is spectacular.
Champions Stakes Day
The final day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. Champions Sprint and Champions Mile events draw the best sprinters and middle-distance horses. A relaxed, celebratory atmosphere marks the end of the carnival season.