The Melbourne Cup is one of Australia’s most anticipated sporting events, famously dubbed “the race that stops a nation.” Held on the first Tuesday of November, this prestigious horse race draws attention from across the country, with millions of Australians tuning in to watch the spectacle unfold.
For those looking for the where to watch Melbourne Cup in 2025, whether from home, at a local venue, or via live streaming, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Melbourne Cup 2025: date and time
The 2025 Melbourne Cup will take place on Tuesday, 4th November 2025 at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria. The main race is scheduled to start at 3:00 pm AEDT.
The event features a day of thrilling races, fashion, and celebrations, making it an unmissable experience whether you’re watching from home, streaming online, or enjoying the atmosphere at a public venue.
Where to watch the Melbourne Cup in 2025
There are several ways to watch the Melbourne Cup live, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.
1. Watch the Melbourne Cup at home
Seeing the Melbourne Cup from your own house is among the most sane choices you could make. Australians might see the race on a big screen with family or online among other choices.
- Channel 10: Officially running the Melbourne Cup, Channel 10 lets you view all of the action live and for free. Covering professional comments, interviews, and behind-the-scenes material to liven the day.
- 10Play: See 10Play, the Channel 10 internet platform, if you want to watch the race. Anyone wishing to check their PC, iPad, or smartphone will find this excellent. To view live just click their website or download the 10 Play app.
- Kayo Sports: For those driven by sports, Kayo Sports offers live streaming of the Melbourne Cup along with other Spring Racing Carnival activities. For everyone unable to see it live, Kayo provides a range of viewing choices including race replays and highlights.
- Foxtel: Their own dedicated racing networks also host the Melbourne Cup. This is a great choice for Foxtel members since it allows you to view in HD and provides all pre- and post-race programming.
2. Watch the Melbourne Cup at a local pub or club
Watching the Melbourne Cup with friends gives many Australians great social opportunities. Nationwide local bars and clubs commemorate Melbourne Cups with promotions to improve the experience, large screens, special cuisine, and You should take several well-known locations under consideration:
- Sports bars and pubs: Many Australian sports bars, especially in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, have plenty of activities during the Melbourne Cup. Usually, they have gourmet food and beverages, large screens, on-site betting options. Great places to witness the race are The Sporting Globe, The Crown Casino, many RSL sites.
- RSL clubs: Usually featuring custom lunch menus, live screens, and freebies, festivities of the Melbourne Cup are planned in RSL venues all throughout Australia. These organisations establish the right setting where one can gain from the competition among other Australians.
- Bowling clubs: Many bowling clubs, especially in the suburbs, set Melbourne Cup lunches and sweepstakes to offer a fun and unique approach to view the race. Find out whether your local bowling club has a Melbourne Cup event scheduled.
3. Watch the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse
The only better place if you want to view the Melbourne Cup in all its splendour is Flemington Racecourse. Attaching this once-in-a-lifetime event with its exciting surroundings, shining costumes, and audience scream as the horses reach the finish line is unforgettable.
- General admission tickets: Usually access tickets let one attend public Flemington racing. These credentials let you access the grounds, eat, drink, view the race on big screens, and thoroughly enjoy the surroundings.
- Hospitality packages: For those looking for a more lavish experience, Flemington offers first-class seating, gourmet cuisine and drinks, and a private viewing space in hotel packages. These packages offer an amazing race day experience even if they are very expensive.
4. Watch the Melbourne Cup at a picnic or BBQ
Why not organise your own Melbourne Cup BBQ or picnic if you want a more laid-back and casual setting? Many Australians enjoy the occasion with great food and nice company, getting together with friends and family either at home, in their backyard, or in a local park.
- Bring your own screens: Bring your own presentations along. You may simply show the race outside with an iPad, laptop, or portable TV. Having options like 10 Play and Kayo Sports lets you view the race from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Organise sweepstakes: About sweepstakes, there are unambiguous words. Even if none of the guests are ardent horse race enthusiasts, having a Melbourne Cup sweepstakes at your BBQ or picnic will help to involve everyone in the celebration. This will intensify your event and create some friendly rivalry.
Tips for the best Melbourne Cup viewing experience
To ensure you have the best possible Melbourne Cup experience, follow these simple tips:
- Check your TV or streaming setup in advance – Avoid missing the race due to technical issues
- Make venue bookings early – Many Melbourne Cup events sell out quickly
- Dress for the occasion – Whether you’re heading to a venue or just celebrating at home, Melbourne Cup fashion is a big part of the fun
- Plan for post-race entertainment – Many venues offer after-parties and live music following the race
Frequently asked questions
Can I watch the Melbourne Cup online?
Depending on your subscription level, Kayo Sports and Foxtel lets you view the Melbourne Cup online; 10Play is free to access.
Do all pubs show the Melbourne Cup?
Usually complimenting sports programming, most Australian taverns and clubs feature the Melbourne Cup. Still, it’s a smart idea to find out whether they have any Melbourne Cup plans by phoning ahead of time.
What time does the Melbourne Cup start?
Though the Melbourne Cup is usually scheduled at 3:00 PM AEDT, check your local listings as celebrations and coverage start much earlier in the day.
Final thoughts
Whether you watch the Melbourne Cup from your house or a local location, this fascinating event brings Australians together. From streaming services to social events, there are many ways to enjoy the race and the perfect spot to view all of the action. Wherever you decide to watch the Melbourne Cup, savor the excitement, make reasonable bets, and have an amazing day with loved ones.
