What Time Does the Melbourne Cup 2023 Start in Each State?

The Melbourne Cup is much more than just a horse race - it's an Australian tradition!

The 2023 Melbourne Cup is scheduled to burst out of the gates at 3 PM (Eastern Daylight Saving Time) on Tuesday, November 7th.

Whether you're sipping an afternoon bevvy in Sydney, enjoying lunch in Singapore, or burning the midnight oil in New York, this guide ensures you won't miss a second of the race that famously halts a nation.

The actual Melbourne Cup race unfolds rapidly, concluding in approximately 200 heart-pounding seconds. Timing is everything – ensure you're ready to witness every moment!

Nationwide Start Times

Australia of course has multiple time zones so check the quick guide below to ensure you catch the race from the comfort of your locale:

Adelaide, SA: 2:30 PM

Brisbane, QLD: 2:00 PM

Canberra, ACT: 3:00 PM

Darwin, NT: 1:30 PM

Hobart, TAS: 3:00 PM

Melbourne, VIC: 3:00 PM

Perth, WA: 12:00 PM

Sydney, NSW: 3:00 PM

International Start Times

For our friends beyond the shores, here's when you should tune in locally to watch the 2023 Melbourne Cup:

Wellington, NZ: 5:00 PM

London, UK: 6:00 AM

Munich, Germany: 7:00 AM

New York, USA: 1:00 AM

Singapore: 1:00 PM

Dubai, UAE: 9:00 AM

Cape Town, South Africa: 7:00 AM

Tokyo, Japan: 2:00 PM

Buenos Aires, Argentina: 2:00 AM

New Delhi, India: 10:30 AM

Melbourne Cup Day Races Schedule

Flemington's racing bonanza comprises ten races, with the Melbourne Cup positioned as the seventh race. 

The day's schedule is tightly packed, commencing at 10:45 AM and concluding at 5:15 PM (AEDT). 

Each race is spaced by a 40-minute interval, with extended breaks framing the Melbourne Cup for the national anthem, parades, and the trophy presentation.

See the full Melbourne Cup race day schedule below:

Race 1 – 10:45AM Darley Maribyrnong Plate (1000 METRES)

Race 2 – 11:20AM Furphy Plate (1800 METRES)

Race 3 – 12:00PM TAB Trophy (1800 METRES)

Race 4 – 12:40PM The Schweppervescence Plate (1000 METRES)

Race 5 – 1:20PM The Macca's Run (2800 METRES)

Race 6 – 1:55PM MSS Security Subzero Handicap (1400 METRES)

Race 7 – 3:00PM Melbourne Cup (3200 METRES)

Race 8 – 3:50PM Howden Desirable Stakes (1400 METRES)

Race 9 – 4:35PM The Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes (1400 METRES)

Race 10 – 5:15PM Paramount+ Trophy (1400 METRES)

Transportation Tips for Melbourne Cup Attendees

Arriving at the Melbourne Cup can be a smooth ride if planned well. 

Trains, trams, and buses service Flemington Racecourse, with special arrangements for event days. 

Driving is an option, but parking is coveted real estate on the day, so aim to arrive early. 

Taxis, rideshares, and even shuttle services are alternatives, with designated drop-off and pick-up zones. 

And for those nearby, a brisk walk or cycle could be the simplest way to immerse yourself in the festivities.