We know our Celestial community loves any excuse to dress up. So if you’re looking to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day in true "Spring Court" style with flowers in your hair and maybe a sneaky fae-ear, but prefer to skip the horse racing, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Our Celestial research team has rounded up the best alternative Melbourne Cup Day events across the country.
These options still let you enjoy festivities, frock up, and celebrate in style—(minus the race).
Victoria: Afternoon Tea for the Animals
For those in Victoria, spend Melbourne Cup Day enjoying an elegant afternoon tea while supporting a great cause!
Join the Afternoon Tea for the Animals, where you'll indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury treats, tea, coffee, or sparkling wine. Enjoy live music, family-friendly games, and a raffle with fantastic prizes. Dress up or stay casual—fancy hats are welcome!
All profits support Amaroo Wildlife Shelter, helping sick and injured local wildlife.
Date: Tuesday, 5th November, 2pm-5pm
Location: Selby Community House, Selby VIC
Tickets: $20.00
Information: For more information click here.
South Australia: Collage and Sip
Art lovers in South Australia can get creative at the Collage and Sip event this Melbourne Cup Day. Join artist Renee Goulding for a fun 2.5-hour collage workshop at her Blackwood studio, with all materials provided.
Bring your own drinks and snacks, and feel free to wear your fascinators!
A portion of ticket sales supports local school art programs.
Date: Tuesday, 5th November, 1pm-3:30pm ACDT
Location: Banham House, Blackwood SA
Tickets: $60.00
Information: For more information click here.
Queensland: Nup to the Cup Party
Join us for the Nup to the Cup event in support of AnimalKIND! Enjoy a delicious meal at Naim, participate in a raffle for fantastic prizes (including a chance to win $1,000 in travel vouchers), and celebrate sustainable fashion with a Best Dressed Trophy up for grabs. A portion of each ticket sale goes directly to AnimalKIND.
Date: Tuesday, 5th November, 1pm-4pm
Location: Naim Restaurant, Brisbane QLD
Tickets: $110.00
Information: For more information click here
Australian Capital Territory: Compassionate Stakes T-Rex Races
Join the fun at the T-Rex and Unicorn Races in Canberra City! Race tickets are just $20 (costume hire included), and spectators watch for free! Participate in the Fashion Off The Fields competition, enjoy a vegan sausage sizzle, baked goods, entertainment, and prizes, all while learning about animal racing.
Proceeds support horse racing survivors at Little Oak Sanctuary.
Date: Sunday, 27th October, 11am-4pm
Location: Glebe Park, Canberra
Tickets: $20 to race, free to attend/watch!
Information: For more information click here
New South Wales: Nup to the Cup - Choose Kindness
Celebrate Melbourne Cup Day by supporting horses! For just $30, meet retired racehorses PJ and George, along with their therapy herd, as they enjoy a peaceful life. Enjoy a light lunch while connecting with these gentle animals in a nurturing environment.
Date: Tuesday, 5th November, 12pm-2pm
Location: The Stables @ Highlands Centre for Healing, Moss Vale NSW
Tickets: $30.00
Information: For more information click here
So Celestials, that’s the round-up, but remember...
No matter where you are in Australia this Melbourne Cup Day, there’s a chance to dress up, have fun, and make a meaningful impact. These events let you step away from the traditional races and enjoy a day filled with compassion, creativity, and good company.
Grab your fae-ears/fascinator or dapper suit, and celebrate with heart!
To explore all the alternative Melbourne Cup events across Australia, click the link below! Home Page - Nup to the Cup
*Please note, these events are not affiliated with Celestial Events.
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