Melbourne Cup Day is a public holiday in the state of Victoria, Australia, and is celebrated by Melbourne’s lively city on the first Tuesday of November every year. This unique event has a rich history, with the first race held back in 1861. It is a horse-racing event known internationally and is often referred to as 'The race that stops a nation', as it is the largest and most prestigious 'two-mile' handicap in the world, and one of the richest turf races.
The Melbourne Cup isn’t just about horseracing. It is a reason for Australians people to celebrate, dress up and have a good time. It’s known for the fashion parade and the 'Fashions on the Field' is a major focus of the day, with substantial prizes awarded for the best-dressed man and woman. Other events like live music and gourmet food experiences also add up to the celebrating this event.
The Melbourne Cup Day is not only significant because of the race itself, but also due to the long tradition of public holidays granted for the event. In Melbourne and other places across Victoria, this day is a public holiday, while in other Australian states, race day events are often held, and many people take the afternoon off work to watch the race on television. The combination of sports, fashion, and festivity provides both local and international visitors with an unforgettable experience.