2026 Darwin Cup Carnival

The Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival brings thousands from around the country for the fun, fashion and colour of thoroughbred racing in the Top End. With eight days of quality racing, including premium hospitality offerings and associated events like the Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball, and Ladbrokes Let’s Talk Racing Luncheon, you’ll find there is something for everyone.

Explore our hospitality and ticketing options and book yourself in for the biggest social and sporting event in the Northern Territory.

Events

Sorry, no events are available.

Excitement is building as tickets for Darwin’s biggest racing and social event, the 2026 Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival, prepare to go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, 17 February.

Each year, the Carnival delivers three unforgettable weeks of racing, fashion, entertainment and hospitality, with premium experiences and key events selling quickly. Racegoers are encouraged to plan early to avoid missing out.

Important update for 2026:
Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day has been brought forward one week to Wednesday 8 July. The new date falls within the school holiday period and creates greater separation from Derby Day, allowing the Carnival to appeal to a broader audience and deliver an enhanced event experience.

Full details of the 2026 Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival race days and events are listed below:

  • Day 1 DCOH Darwin Guineas Day, Saturday 4 July 2026
  • Day 2 Rydges Palmerston Ladies’ Day, Wednesday 8 July 2026
  • Day 3 AUFS Chief Minister’s Cup Day, Saturday 11 July 2026
  • Day 4 Ladbrokes NT Derby Day, Saturday 18 July 2026
  • Day 5 TAB Metric Mile Day, Saturday 25 July 2026
  • Day 6 Dabble Corporate Race Day, Wednesday 29 July 2026
  • Ladbrokes Let’s Talk Racing Luncheon, Thursday 30 July 2026
  • Day 7 bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day, Saturday 1 August 2026
  • Sportsbet Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball, Saturday 1 August 2026
  • Ladbrokes Darwin Cup Calcutta, Sunday 2 August 2026
  • Day 8 Great Northern Darwin Cup Day, Monday 3 August 2026

Mark your calendar – tickets go on sale Tuesday, 17 February.