Everything you need to know for the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival
The Territory’s biggest sporting and social event the Darwin Cup Carnival races back into action this weekend with a month of the best Top End racing and fashion. FULL GUIDE.
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The Territory’s biggest sporting and social event the Darwin Cup Carnival races back into action this weekend with a month of the best Top End racing and fashion.
The Carnival from July 5 to August 4 features eight days of racing and plenty of marquee events along attracting up to 20,000 people.
Darwin Turf Club chief executive Chris Chaffe said the 2025 Cup Carnival is shaping up as one of the best ever with tickets already selling fast.
As well as premier race days such as Ladies Day, the Gala Ball and the Darwin Cup itself there’s plenty of inclusions for punters to enjoy.
“Patrons will enjoy access to the airconditioned Pavilion where Great Northern pop-up bars and the GH Mumm Champagne bar will be located,” he said.
Mr Chaffe said the Carnival continues to be a significant economic contributor for the NT.
Racing and Tourism and Hospitality minister Marie-Clare Boothby said the Carnival showcases the strength of the Territory’s racing industry while celebrating the NT’s unique lifestyle.
“The Darwin Cup Carnival offers a racing experience you won’t find anywhere else, with our black sand track, dry season weather, and iconic Territory atmosphere.”
For tickets go to: darwinturfclub.org.au.
DCOH Darwin Guineas Race Day – July 5
The best young horses will take centre stage as the Darwin Cup Carnival kicks off for Darwin Guineas Day.
The popular preview for what’s to come will provide plenty of hospitality options to suit all levels of racing enthusiasts.
AUFS Chief Minister’s Cup – July 12
Chief Minister’s Cup Day is known as the family day of the Darwin Cup Carnival and that means plenty of activities for the whole family such as a petting zoo, face painting and more.
The $60,000 Asian United Food Service Chief Minister’s Cup run over 1600m is the second leg of the $100,000 Ladbrokes Territory Treble.
It’s an important race in terms of looking ahead to the Darwin Cup with five of the past nine winners going on to win the big one in the same year.
Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day – July 16
The festivities aren’t just for the weekend with the iconic and glamorous Ladies Day set to light up the racetrack July 16.
The glamour of elegance of Fashions on the Field showcasing some of the best fashion and style from across the Territory.
Ladbrokes NT Derby Day – July 19
Black and white are the colours of the day at the Darwin Derby Day, where again the best young racers will be the centrepiece of the racing.
Fashions on the Field will again be a major focus, while a number of hospitality options will also be available.
TAB Metric Mile Day – July 26
The $50k TAB Metric Mile is the last chance for runners looking for a shot at racing the Darwin Cup to make the field for the big day.
The 1600m event caps off a list of seven top-quality races and has had plenty of renowned winners.
Dabble Corporate Race Day – July 30
The NT’s business community get their chance to head trackside and indulge in a luncheon at the Ted Bailey Grandstand.
Action on the track is all about the sprinters with past multiple time winners of the Dabble Cup including trainers Gary Clarke, Neil Dyer and Stephen Brown.
Let’s Talk Racing Luncheon – July 31
While most eyes will be on the ballot draw for the main race there’s plenty to enjoy at the annual Let’s Talk Racing Luncheon.
The 2025 Magic Millions Darwin Tried Horse Sale will be a must watch for trainers while there will be plenty of lively discussion around the pavilion.
Bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day / Sportsbet DTC Gala Ball – August 2
The Palmerston Sprint gets the long weekend under way.
Champion trainer Gary Clarke has historically gone well in the sprint while there’s plenty from further afield looking to make their own mark on the day.
The day doesn’t end at the track though, as the prestigious black-tie Gala Ball will head to Mindil Beach shortly after, returning to the casino to great success last year.
Great Northern Darwin Cup Day – August 4
And it will all come down to the biggest day of them all with thousands set to grace the Darwin Turf Club for the main event.
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Originally published as Everything you need to know for the 2025 Darwin Cup Carnival
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