Geelong Cup Day

Geelong Cup Day: A Celebration of Racing and Community

Geelong Cup Day is a prestigious horse racing event and public holiday in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. It features the Geelong Cup, a Group 3 thoroughbred race that serves as a key lead-up to the Melbourne Cup.

Quick Facts

When is it? October 22, 2025
Tagged as: Horse racing, Community event, Public holiday
What’s the hashtag? #GeelongCup
When was it founded? 1872
Who founded it? Geelong Racing Club

History of Geelong Cup Day

The Geelong Cup began in 1872 as a two-mile race, replacing the Geelong Criterion Handicap. Over the years, it has evolved into a 2400-meter race and gained prominence as a crucial lead-up to the Melbourne Cup. The event has become a cornerstone of Geelong’s social calendar, attracting thousands of visitors and boosting the local economy.

Timeline

1872: Inaugural Geelong Cup won by Flying Scud
1947: Geelong Cup settles into its current spring date
2002: Race upgraded to Group 3 status
2010: Distance standardized to 2400 meters
2025: Upcoming Geelong Cup celebration

Geelong Cup Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 22	Wednesday
2026	October 21	Wednesday
2027	October 20	Wednesday
2028	October 18	Wednesday
2029	October 24	Wednesday
2030	October 23	Wednesday

Observed Geelong Cup Day

Geelong Cup Day is observed as a public holiday in the Geelong municipality. The event draws large crowds to the Geelong Racecourse, where spectators enjoy thrilling horse races, fashionable attire, and a festive atmosphere. Local businesses benefit from increased activity, and the community comes together to celebrate this longstanding tradition.

Fun Facts About Geelong Cup Day

The Geelong Cup is often considered a predictor for the Melbourne Cup.
Fashion is a significant aspect of the event, with many attendees participating in Fashions on the Field competitions.
The event attracts international horses and has been won by subsequent Melbourne Cup winners.
Geelong Cup Day is one of the few weekday public holidays specific to a particular region in Australia.
The race has been held at various times of the year throughout its history, including during wartime when it was relocated to Moonee Valley.

Quiz

In which year was the first Geelong Cup held?
What is the current distance of the Geelong Cup race?
How many days before the Melbourne Cup is the Geelong Cup typically held?
What was the original name of the race before it became the Geelong Cup?
In which year was the Geelong Cup upgraded to Group 3 status?

(Answers: 1. 1872, 2. 2400 meters, 3. 13 days, 4. Geelong Criterion Handicap, 5. 2002)

FAQs

Q: Is Geelong Cup Day a public holiday?
A: Yes, it is a public holiday in the Geelong municipality.

Q: Can I place bets on the Geelong Cup?
A: Yes, betting is available through various online bookmakers and at the racecourse.

Q: What should I wear to Geelong Cup Day?
A: Racegoers often dress up in formal attire, with many participating in fashion competitions.

Q: Are there activities besides horse racing on Geelong Cup Day?
A: Yes, the event features fashion shows, live entertainment, and various hospitality options.

Q: How can I get to the Geelong Racecourse?
A: The racecourse is accessible by car, and there are usually special public transport services on the day.

Importance of Geelong Cup Day

Geelong Cup Day holds significant cultural and economic importance for the region. It brings the community together, showcasing local talent and attracting visitors from across the country. The event provides a substantial boost to the local economy, benefiting hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors.

As a key race in the Spring Racing Carnival, the Geelong Cup plays a vital role in the Australian horse racing industry. It offers horses a chance to qualify for the prestigious Melbourne Cup, adding to its sporting significance.

Moreover, Geelong Cup Day has become a symbol of local pride and identity, representing the city’s rich history and vibrant present. It continues to evolve while maintaining its traditional charm, ensuring its place as a beloved annual celebration for generations to come.