The AFL Grand Final weekend is almost here, and if you haven’t locked in where you’re watching the game, Thoroughbred Park is putting forward a compelling option. 

The Hops & Hooves Festival Race Day returns on Saturday 26 September, bringing together live racing, local beer, wine, spirits, food, music and Canberra’s biggest AFL Grand Final watch party. 

Here’s what you need to know.

Sip Your Way Around the Region 

This year, the festival is bringing together a line-up of independent brewers, distillers and winemakers from Canberra and beyond. 

You can grab a cold one from Gungahlin’s own Cypher Brewing Co or Beerded Bro Brewing, sip on spirits from Fyshwick’s Ambrosia Distillery, try a drop from Braidwood’s Hold Fast Distillery, or sample a South Coast brew from Broulee Brewhouse. 

It’s basically a regional tasting tour without having to leave the track.

Kick a Footy, Win Cold Hard Cash 

Between the races, you can test your kicking skills for a shot at some cash. 

The ‘Kick for Cash’ competition opens straight after Race 3, giving racegoers one kick to land an AFL footy in a bin.  

Nail it and you’ll share in a $1,000 cash pool with the other successful kickers.

You Pick the Best Dressed 

Fashions on the Field is getting a shake-up this year too. 

Rather than a traditional judging panel, a content creator will be scouting the best looks around the course, with a shortlist posted to Thoroughbred Park’s Instagram Stories for racegoers to vote on.  

Winners will then be decided by the crowd. 

So, whether you’re going sharp, colourful or coordinating with the group, keep an eye out for the camera.

Watching the Game for a Good Cause 

For something a little more elevated, Curated Race Day for a Cause is also returning, raising funds and awareness for MS Australia. 

Hosted by former Miss Australia Emily Egan, the private marquee includes entry to Hops & Hooves, a three-hour drinks package, platter-style food, a DJ and a big screen showing the AFL Grand Final. You can come with a group, a partner or on your own, with the event designed around meeting new people and supporting a good cause.

EVENT INFORMATION: 

Location: Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham 

Dates/Times: Saturday 26 September 2026, gates open from 12:00pm 

Ticketing/Booking: General admission starts at $37 online, with premium trackside packages and Curated marquee tickets available for upgrades.  

Find out more HERE