Flemington to light up New Year's Eve with first ever Twilight Racing and celebrations

For the first time, racegoers can welcome the New Year trackside at Flemington with an action-packed evening of twilight racing, followed by celebrations that continue well after the final race.

This New Year's Eve offers the ultimate "one-stop" celebration, combining world-class racing, elevated dining experiences, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of fireworks from both Footscray Park (9:30pm) and Melbourne CBD (midnight).

The racing program kicks off at 3:40pm with an eight-race twilight card highlighted by the $175,000 Listed Bagot Handicap (2800m) - first run in 1884 - and the $175,000 Listed Kensington Stakes (1400m), marking a shift from the traditional New Year's Day program.

As the sun sets, the Flemington Front Lawn will burst into a kaleidoscope of colour as Illuminate Flemington transforms the space into an immersive, multi-sensory light spectacular. Visitors can wander through radiant installations and dazzling displays while enjoying performances on the main stage with headline DJs from 4pm, karaoke booths, lawn games, pop-up bars, and drink specials.

The racecourse will be a hub of fun for all ages, with a dedicated Kids Glow Zone featuring Kelly Sports activities, dodgeball, kids disco and karaoke, UV face painting, pony rides, and roving entertainment, creating a safe, enjoyable destination for families seeking a fun atmosphere from sunset into the night.

VRC Members will have access to exclusive experiences throughout the evening, including the Neon Garden on the Roof Garden, flooded with illuminated foliage, photo moments, neon lights, headline DJs, cocktail specials and epic city skyline views and the luxe G.H. Mumm Champagne Disco Bar, featuring pop-up entertainment moments, surprise champagne toasts, and headline act Super Disco Club bringing disco beats for the New Year countdown.

Jockeys will race in cutting-edge amber-lens goggles from Shore Goggles, purpose-built to enhance contrast and sharpen depth perception as light conditions shift during twilight racing.

VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers said New Year's Eve at Flemington is set to be a summer highlight.

"We are really excited to throw one of the best New Year's Eve parties in Melbourne, and we have created multiple spaces across the precinct to offer unique and elevated experiences," Ms Rogers said.

"People are encouraged to come for the racing and stay for the celebrations or simply join us for the New Year's festivities. There's something for everyone.

"This is a proud community event designed for locals to enjoy, with family-friendly entertainment, live music, and spectacular fireworks views right in their own backyard.

It's going to be an unforgettable way to welcome 2026 at Flemington."

Gates open at 3:00pm ahead of Race 1 at 3:40pm, with gates closing at 1:00am.

Flemington Pass (General Admission) tickets are $30, with children under 12 free. For more information and tickets visit vrc.com.au.