Ascot Park Christmas at the Races

A sea of festive marquees fans out in front of you as glamorously dressed partygoers mingle in the Southland sun.

Welcome to Christmas at the Races.

It’s Invercargill’s big day out as an excited buzz fills the air at the picturesque Ascot Park Racecourse venue.

Elegantly attired racegoers make their way around the park-like grounds - while others unleash their individuality.

Christmas at the Races is a destination event with people from all around New Zealand flocking south to see what the fuss is all about.

Next event date: TBC 2024
Location: Invercargill
Keen to learn more: southlandracing.co.nz

You might fancy breaking out the liquorice all-sorts three-piece suit, a feathered fascinator, or debuting that sensational new dress - the Fashion In The Field competition is just waiting for you to add your own touch of individual flare. 

Be immersed in the classic Christmas at the Races experience with live music, amazing food, TAB and bar facilities, all wrapped up in an atmosphere that could be Flemington, Royal Ascot or Aintree - with some of New Zealand’s best thoroughbred talent thundering down the home straight.

People look forward to this day all year - it’s the beginning of the end of the year, time to let your hair down, relax and have some fun.

It’s the ultimate destination for social club and business end-of-year do’s. Go on - theme your marquee, you know you want to.

There’s that all-important new social media profile pic to get sorted too.

It’s a free-range day where you can have a dance, have a bet, watch some races - or not watch some races. 

Every year new attractions are rolled out for people to see and do, while a sustainability focus keeps a lid on waste. Organisers put a premium on your wellbeing - which makes for a vibrant and relaxed opportunity to say G’day to all those people you’ve been meaning to catch up with.

The only dinosaurs here are the novelty ones dashing down the home straight in the T-Rex Race - just one of a plethora of entertainment on tap.

When the last race is run, take time out to marvel at Invercargill’s charming old-world feel, and our wide array of excellent cultural attractions, outstanding nature reserves and parks, and lively cafes, restaurants and bars.

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