5 Best ways to experience the Melbourne Cup this spring

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Over the last year or so, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we attend and enjoy public events in Australia.

While some yearly spectacles such as Moomba and The Royal Melbourne Show were unable to go ahead, others like the Melbourne Cup Carnival can still be enjoyed and celebrated, even if you're unable to watch the races in person.

The Melbourne Cup is one of Australia's most iconic and highly anticipated events, and there are ways you, your family and friends can enjoy the fun in 2021.

With travel restrictions in places across several States, not everyone has the option of attending the Melbourne Cup in person, but you can always catch all of the action by watching it live on TV. Whether you prefer to watch it on Channel 10 or stream it live online, you're still able to enjoy all of Australia's favourite races.

Hosting a Melbourne Cup party is a popular and long held tradition for many Australians.

The warm spring weather creates the perfect backdrop for preparing a delicious barbeque lunch and enjoying a few cold beverages with friends and family before sitting down to hear the iconic Melbourne Cup race at 3pm.

There are plenty of Melbourne Cup party ideas you can try in the comfort of your very own home.

Placing a cheeky bet on your favourite is one of the best parts of the Melbourne Cup. Organise a sweep with your friends, workmates or family and get into the race day spirit. Whether you're watching at home on TV, enjoying a race day party or going to watch the Melbourne Cup in person, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy the race that stops the nation.

You can't celebrate the Melbourne Cup without a glass of champagne and delicious food. And with more and more people celebrating at home, many local restaurants are offering catering packages.

Elevate your race day experience by ordering some gourmet food and wine from some of Melbourne's best restaurants and caterers.

While the horse races are without a doubt the standout at the Melbourne Cup, the prestigious Fashion on the Field competition is equally iconic.

Since 1962, local and international designers have used this special day to showcase their latest creations. So if you're a fashion lover, make sure you tune in to see the best dressed live on TV and online.

The Melbourne Cup Carnival is a spectacle of colour and the most famous horse race in Australia. It's not an event to miss if you're lucky enough to be able to attend, but there are ways for those who can't make it down under next year to enjoy the carnival too.

From watching live on TV and organising sweepstakes with friends, we've got all your options covered.