Adelaide Cup

The Adelaide Cup will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026. There are currently 65 days remaining until the event takes place. This major horse racing event is traditionally held on the second Monday of March each year, providing a long weekend for residents and visitors to enjoy the festivities at Morphettville Racecourse and across the state of South Australia.

Yes, the Adelaide Cup is an official state public holiday in South Australia. While it is not a national holiday across the rest of Australia, most businesses, schools, and government offices within South Australia are closed for the day. This status was officially granted in 1973, allowing the community to come together to celebrate one of the state's most significant sporting and social traditions.

The Adelaide Cup is a deeply historical event, holding the title of Australia's second-oldest horse race, surpassed only by the Melbourne Cup. The race was first run in 1864 and has been a staple of the South Australian sporting calendar for over 160 years. Although it was originally held in May, the event was moved to March in 2006 to ensure better weather conditions, which has helped increase attendance and solidified its place as a premier cultural celebration.

The event is held at the Morphettville Racecourse in Adelaide. The day typically features a program of eight high-quality races, starting around noon with roughly 40-minute intervals between each race. This schedule gives attendees plenty of time to socialize, enjoy refreshments, and place bets. Beyond the track, the Adelaide Cup Carnival offers various entertainment options, making it a vibrant social hub for fashion, food, and sport.

While many people head to Morphettville Racecourse to watch the Thoroughbred racing in person, the holiday is celebrated in many ways. Because it creates a three-day long weekend, many locals take the opportunity to travel to the countryside or coastal regions. Others gather at pubs, parks, or private functions to enjoy the social atmosphere. It has become a symbol of state pride, where the focus is as much on community connection as it is on the actual horse races.

In 2006, the South Australian government and racing officials decided to move the Adelaide Cup from its traditional May date to the second Monday in March. The primary reason was to take advantage of the warmer, more stable autumn weather, as May often brought rain and cold temperatures that deterred crowds. The move proved successful, leading to higher attendance numbers and a more festival-like atmosphere that benefits the local tourism industry.

Fashion is a major tradition of the Adelaide Cup, with 'Fashions on the Field' competitions being a highlight for many attendees. It is a day where people dress in their finest racewear, including elaborate hats and fascinators. Another custom is the social 'long lunch' or marquee hospitality, where groups gather to enjoy local South Australian food and wine while watching the eight-race program unfold throughout the afternoon.

Visitors should be aware that as a public holiday, public transport schedules may change, and it is advisable to book tickets for the racecourse in advance as it is a very popular event. Since the race moved to March, the weather is usually warm and sunny, so sun protection is essential. Even if you aren't a racing fan, the vibrant atmosphere and the surrounding Adelaide Cup Carnival offer plenty of entertainment, making it one of the best times to experience the social culture of South Australia.