Three Days of World Class Racing, Style, Culture and Unmissable Experiences
The Curragh Racecourse will once again take centre stage this summer as it hosts the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival, running from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June 2026. As the jewel in Ireland’s Flat racing crown, the festival promises three extraordinary days that blend elite sport, contemporary Irish culture, exceptional hospitality, and a vibrant social scene, all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most historic and revered racecourses.
The 2026 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival arrives during a landmark year for The Curragh, following the launch of a Flat Season that includes Ireland’s first ever Good Friday race meeting and a focus on family experiences, style, and world class racing. Speaking ahead of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, Brian Kavanagh, CEO of The Curragh Racecourse, said: “The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby is the pinnacle of our season – a celebration of excellence, heritage, and the unique spirit of Irish racing. This year’s three‑day festival offers more value, more entertainment, and more reasons than ever for visitors from both Ireland and abroad to experience The Curragh Racecourse at its very best.”
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival has evolved into one of the most compelling summer events, attracting racing fans, fashion followers, families, and international visitors alike. The 2026 programme showcases a rich blend of top‑tier racing, live entertainment, and immersive experiences.
Friday 26th June – Festival Opening & The Corinthian Challenge
The festival opens with a dynamic Friday evening card featuring The Corinthian Challenge Race, supporting the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. The atmosphere continues long after the final race, with a high‑energy performance from The Whistlin’ Donkeys, setting the tone for a weekend of celebration.
Saturday 27th June – Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes Day
Saturday brings one of the highlights of the European racing calendar: the Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes, attracting elite fillies and mares from across the continent. The day combines high fashion with The K Club’s Most Stylish Racegoer, as well as premium hospitality, and a buzzing social scene, making it a favourite for style‑focused racegoers and lifestyle media.
Sunday 28th June – Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day
The festival reaches its crescendo with the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, Ireland’s most prestigious Flat race and a defining moment in the international racing season. Marking a legacy that extends over 160 years, the Irish Derby is a race that continues to stand as one of the most prestigious and thrilling in the world. The race has produced legends of the turf for generations and continues to draw international attention from owners, trainers, and racing enthusiasts worldwide. Off the track, all eyes will be on the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Best Dressed Competition, which attracts world class style each year.
Following the Classic showdown, the celebrations continue with The Tumbling Paddies, who will close the festival with an unforgettable live performance.
The Curragh has introduced the Irish Derby Weekend Ticket this year, offering access to all three days of racing and post‑race entertainment for just €70. This new ticket is designed to reward racing fans, encourage attendance across the weekend, attract international visitors, and support locals.
Beyond the track, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival offers an experience beyond expectations:
- Premium hospitality and diverse dining options, showcasing the best of Irish produce
- Vibrant style moments, with competitions and curated fashion experiences
- Family‑friendly entertainment, with under‑18s going free (when with a paying adult), except on Derby Sunday when there is a €15 charge for those aged 15-18.
- A warm Curragh welcome, reflecting the racecourse’s commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and exceptional visitor experience
Tickets, hospitality packages, and full festival details are available at www.curragh.ie.
Early booking is strongly advised for hospitality, international visitors and groups.
A complimentary shuttle bus service will run from Newbridge, Kildare and Naas towns and train stations across the weekend, with full details available soon at www.curragh.ie.
