The Stawell Times-News

How to enjoy the 2021 Melbourne Cup from home

How to enjoy the 2021 Melbourne Cup from home
How to enjoy the 2021 Melbourne Cup from home

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Every year, the Melbourne Cup is held on the first Tuesday in November. Even though it may not be a public holiday for everyone, unless you're a Victorian resident, who says watching the Melbourne Cup on trackside is the best way to celebrate?

Having a Melbourne Cup party at home can be just as exciting. This year's neighbourhood event is the perfect occasion to get together with family and friends for some fun, excitement and delicious food.

In a pandemic-affected world, the race that stops the nation is likely to look very different this year, but there's no reason to miss out on the fun, food and fashion.

The countdown is on for one of the most important horse races in Australia, and now is the time to start getting your last-minute preparations in place for the big day.

Continue reading for some valuable tips and ideas to help you celebrate the Melbourne Cup at home in style.

How about gourmet racing?

If you aren't heading to Flemington, the key to the best Cup day experience is getting organised early, so you can relax and enjoy the festivities.

If you are worried about your budget and styling skills, fear not, as there is a lot that you can do even if money is tight.

With a few bargain buys, some of your favourite props, and a bit of creativity, you can wow your guests by setting a fantastic table and delighting them with a delicious spread.

Order gourmet catering to add an extra taste of class to your race day by ordering some of the best food and drinks the country has to offer.

Or even better, hire a personal chef for the day to create a racing-related menu and let the fun begin.

Your choices are as wide as the Murray River when it comes to what to serve. Think fine dining, quality food, gourmet picnic hampers and loads of bubbly to create the perfect party experience.

Race day for toddlers

It is customary to collectively hold our breath for approximately three minutes until the winner of the world's richest two-mile handicapped race flashes past the winning post.

If you would rather not drag your toddler to an event associated with glamour, fashion, and gourmet food, simply make this year's Melbourne Cup more memorable for your little ones by planning a special party for them.

Make your theme a big deal by hiring a carousel. A variety of different designs, models, and sizes are available, and prices range from about 700 to 7,000 Australian dollars for the day.

To ensure the safety of toddlers and better photo opportunities, choose a smaller, slower-turning carousel if possible.

As well as horses, Cup Day is all about fashion and hats. In your invitations, it needs to be clear that the children must dress for the occasion.

It's no secret that mums and some dads love dressing up, and now you can make the most of this opportunity with your little ones as you embrace celebrating the big day at home.

You can get everyone under starters orders by organising a craft session where parents and children can come together and make hats for each other.

Be the winner on Cup Day with a big celebration at home

There's no way you can turn your home into Flemington Racecourse, but with a bit of ingenuity and a lot of planning, you could make your friends the happiest fillies in town.

You might be surprised by the fun and spectacular events you can have at home when you put your mind to it.

Whether it's a sit-down lunch, a cocktail party, or a backyard barbecue, you can choose to make it special and enjoy this year's Melbourne Cup just as much as any other.

  • Gamble responsibly. Contact the Gambling Helpline for free and confidential support, information and counselling on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.