The Ebor Festival at York Racecourse is a four-day event in late August, and it is one of the highlights of the summer in Flat racing. The meeting attracts the best horses, jockeys and trainers, as they bid to win some of the most prestigious races in the sport.
Here is a look at what makes the Ebor Festival such a must-visit for horse racing fans or just those looking for a social day out.
Juddmonte International
The four days at York’s Ebor Meeting are packed with prestigious races, with the highlight being the Group One Juddmonte International. This year’s contest could feature the Epsom Derby winner, City Of Troy, who is the 5/4 favourite in the betting UK for the race. The Irish horse produced a huge performance to win the British Classic earlier this season, so it is a big boost for the meeting to have him involved.
As the betting calculator shows, those looking to place a £10 bet on City Of Troy will collect £22.50 should he prevail in the day one contest. He is bidding for a hat-trick of Group One victories this season, as he was also successful in the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown on his latest appearance.
Elsewhere across the week, the Nunthorpe Stakes sees Europe’s best sprinters in action on the Knavesmire at York, including Royal Ascot winner Khaadem. The Yorkshire Oaks is a race where the leading fillies will take centre stage, while the Ebor is the most valuable handicap contest run in Europe.
Friendly Racecourse
York Racecourse is often described as “the Ascot of the north”. In 2005 when Ascot was being redeveloped, it played host to the royal meeting.
The northern venue is a premier racecourse with world-class facilities for horses and racegoers. Although it holds meetings from April through to October, the Ebor is the one which attracts the biggest attendances.
The atmosphere at York is why so many racing fans head to the racecourse for the annual fixture. Racing fans cheer on the competitors on the track, while they give each winner a warm welcome on their return to the winner’s enclosure.
Entertainment and Hospitality
Racecourses do a fantastic job of ensuring there is entertainment for all throughout the afternoon across their race days, and York is one of the best at doing that. You will come across a range of entertainment from music to arts. If you are making it a family day out, there are also activities for all ages.
Hospitality packages can be booked at York for the Ebor Meeting, and these include places in their racecourse restaurant, a private box to enjoy the day with friends and family, or access to a lounge to avoid the queues for food and drink.
Dress codes do apply to certain areas of the racecourse if you are enjoying the hospitality, with gentlemen required to wear a jacket, collared shirt, and tie. There is no formal dress code for ladies, however, most do dress up for the occasion, especially on Ladies Day.
Tickets are on sale now for the 2024 Ebor Festival through York’s official website. All the details such as directions and timings can also be found on the racecourse’s site.
