155 Years of History—The Melbourne Cup Carnival Is Set to Make a Stylish Debut

▲ The Melbourne Cup is set to open in grand style. (Photo / Provided by Tourism Victoria, Australia, the same applies below.)

By Chen Hanyin / Compiled report

Australia’s most important annual thoroughbred horse race, the “Melbourne Cup,” will grandly open on October 29th. As one of the world’s most historic four major racing carnivals, the Melbourne Cup perfectly blends sport, fashion, food, and wine. In addition to top horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the globe competing live, the over 50-year-old Myer Fashions on the Field competition will also take place, heralding the arrival of the stylish Melbourne Cup Carnival.

▲ The Melbourne Cup is one of the world’s most historic four major racing carnivals, with horse riding talents from all over gathering to celebrate.

This is a long-standing annual event. Since 1861, the first Tuesday of November each year has seen the Melbourne Cup Carnival held in the heritage-listed Flemington Racecourse. In 2015 alone, it attracted over 122,000 visitors to Victoria, generating nearly AUD 400 million in economic benefits. The highly prestigious Emirates Melbourne Cup Day has also become a carnival for Melbourne residents, and this day has been designated as an official public holiday by the government.

▲ Men wear the official emblem flower on their suit lapels, while women opt for charming hats and avant-garde outfits to showcase elegance.

In addition to the exciting horse races, the event also brings together the essence of food, wine, sports, business, and fashion. Not only is there fierce competition on the track, but there’s also a fashion showdown off it. Spectators dress up in their most glamorous attire to attend, competing for attention at the Myer Fashion competition. It has become Australia’s most prestigious fashion event, with celebrities such as Princess Diana, Nicole Kidman, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Lin Chi-ling all having graced the lawns of Flemington Racecourse.

▲ There’s excitement both on and off the field.

With a history of 155 years, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is a traditional celebration of social and cultural heritage. Notably, the day before the Emirates Melbourne Cup race day, Melbourne will be buzzing with excitement as crowds cheer for top jockeys, trainers, legendary horses, and competing steeds during the parade. To experience a Melbourne rich in culture, art, and color, start with this city-wide celebration.