Take the lead and gather a bunch of friends and family for an unforgettable 2-days of trackside fun at the Canberra Racing Carnival, Thoroughbred Park.

The Canberra racing carnival includes the prestigious John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Race Day on Sunday 8 March, and for the first time, a newly introduced, family-focused TAB Canberra Cup Race Day on Monday 9 March.

Get your two day pass here.

Sunday 8 March 

The John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes is kicking off a long weekend of fun as one of Thoroughbred’s most popular events. Gates open 11.30am on Sunday 8 March which will see Thoroughbred park fill with race goers, fashionistas and socialites alike.

The crowds will create a unique electric atmosphere, with a live band and on-course entertainment keeping up the vibe all day long.

Enjoy fashions on the field and watch as Canberra gets all dressed up in their best autumn carnival wear with the incentive of great prizes to be won! Along with flowing drinks, delicious food and local racing kicking off from 1pm.

Free buses will run from Thoroughbred Park to the official after party at The Duxton every 30 minutes from 3.30pm. For those looking to celebrate race day a little longer, free Brookvale Union vodka peach ice tea on arrival for the first 250 guests.

Monday 9 March

Make sure you are part of the excitement that will be the inaugural TAB Canberra Cup race day.

It’s the perfect family outing, with free entry for children, including family entertainment such as pony rides, petting zoo, giant slide, face painters, Jumping castle and many more other attractions- the whole family will have a ball.

Joining the fun is children’s comedy band, Mr Tim and the Fuzzy Elbows. Mr Tim and the Fuzzy Elbows are for the inner child in everyone; inspired by “The Muppets” and “Sesame Street” with music to get the little ones excited.

With a family show full of spontaneous songs, comedy and witty music all ages will enjoy this spellbinding mix of blues, folk, rock, country and what can only be described as a ‘Hypnotic Transylvanian polka.’

Along with endless entertainment and attractions for kids, introduce them to the thrill and the excitement of live racing, making the long weekend a truly unique experience for all ages.

Over the two days enjoy free travel across the Transport Canberra Network when you pre purchase your ticket through Ticketek.

Book your ticket through Ticketek or at the gate on the day.
For more information, visit thoroughbredpark.com.au.