The biggest and most popular one-day fixture at Cheltenham Racecourse, New Year's Day racing gets 2026 off to a thrilling start on Thursday 1 January.
What to expect at New Year's Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse?
See in the new year in style with trackside action out in the fresh air, with a chance to witness exhilarating racing from some of the top horses, jockeys and trainers in the UK – as well as collecting top tips for who to back at Cheltenham Festival in March.
There's seven highly competitive races taking place throughout the day, all kicking off at 12.20pm, with a highlight of the Betfair Exchange Handicap Steeple Chase at 2.05pm, with the National Hunt Flat Race capping off the day at 3.50pm.
Is New Year's Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse family-friendly?
The Family Fun Zone – available to club and tattersalls ticket holders only – provides a whole day of entertainment to keep little racegoers happy.
Phil the Elf is back with his Christmas show – expect an action-packed hour of laughter, music and magic, with a side of merry mayhem!
There's also face painting and glitter tattoos; inflatables; arts and crafts; interactive shows with Party Peeps and a chance to bust a move at the end-of-day disco.
And for older children, there's a 9-hole mini golf course to take on; VR equicisers to ride; a rodeo rugby ball challenge and an array of arcade games to play on.
Is there entertainment at New Year's Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse?
With the kids covered, there's entertainment for the grownups, too, in the form of live music played across various performance areas at the racecourse.
Start the new year on a high at The Guinness Village, where LAMPA are playing a mix of Irish favourite and greatest hits throughout the day, with an hour of post-racing music, too.
The Tattersalls Sales Arena hosts Richard James for sets between the races and after the track action concludes, with feel-good favourites guaranteed to keep the good vibes going.
And head to the Centaur for another post-racing option, with acoustic tunes from Tommy and The Fuse bringing the day to a close.
How to get tickets to New Year's Day Racing at Cheltenham Racecourse?
Those looking to upgrade their race day experience can continue the New Year's celebrations by booking tickets for The Racing Lounge for £82 per person, located in the heart of the Tented Village, providing an ideal base for the day – with a dedicated bar service, a selection of food options and live music to enjoy after the last race.
Tickets for New Year's Day Racing 2026 can be booked online via thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/events-tickets/new-years-day – and get 10 per cent off general admission tickets when booking as a group of more than six!
