Brisbane Melbourne Cup 2024: Last-minute venues and events

With premium Melbourne Cup packages sold out across Brisbane, there are still plenty of ways to join the fun, find the city’s best spots for last-minute race-day thrills and entertainment.

Juliana Lee and Kendall Gilding. Picture: Richard Walker

Brisbane is gearing up to bring the Melbourne Cup to life this Tuesday, and for those still seeking a slice of the race-day magic, there are a number of options available for punters eager to catch “the race that stops the nation” in style.

Although many of the premium packages have already sold out, The Star Brisbane at Queen’s Wharf offers a variety of options for walk-in guests.

Juliana Lee and Kendall Gilding at The Star Queen's Wharf Skydeck. Picture: Richard Walker

The hub of the action will be The Star’s Sports Bar, where fans can immerse themselves in the racing atmosphere with two 12m LED screens broadcasting the big race.

After the race, Brisbane partygoers can head to Cicada Blu on Sky Deck or LiveWire for a post-race celebration filled with music, drinks, and live entertainment.

“We are thrilled to see all the colour, excitement, and action of Melbourne Cup come to life at The Star Brisbane for the very first time,” Chief Operating Officer Kelvin Dodt said.

“It’s set to be a stellar day here in Brisbane.”

For music lovers, the entertainment line-up is packed with top DJs and a headlining performance by Cali Music from Los Angeles, featuring live vocals, saxophone, guitar, and percussion to keep the crowd buzzing well into the night.

Beyond The Star, other Brisbane icons are joining the Cup Day festivities.

The Normanby Hotel offers a last-minute luncheon package priced at $169 per person, including a three-hour food and drink experience.

Racing enthusiasts can head to Eagle Farm, where Brisbane Racing Club’s Canadian Club Melbourne Cup Raceday offers options from $25 general entry to the $195 Nova 106.9 Lawn Party, with five hours of DJ entertainment and flowing beverages.

For a more relaxed vibe, the Plough Inn’s downstairs beer garden is open to walk-ins, where racegoers can enjoy ice-cold drinks and watch the races off-track.

At Howard Smith Wharves, Felons Brewing Co, Felons Barrel Hall and the Rivergarden will all be taking walk-ins for the Melbourne Cup, while limited tickets remain at Mr Percivals, Ciao Papi and Yoko Dining.

MrPercival’s and Felons Barrel Hall are also hosting a Melbourne Cup Afterparty from 3pm.