Quick answer
The Melbourne Cup is run on the first Tuesday in November. It is Tuesday 3 November 2026 and Tuesday 2 November 2027. Melbourne Cup Day is a public holiday in Victoria, and some regional areas hold it on a different date. The other states do not list it as a statewide public holiday.
What are the Melbourne Cup dates?
| Year | Date | Public holiday |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Tue 3 Nov 2026 | Victoria (some regional areas differ) |
| 2027 | Tue 2 Nov 2027 | Victoria (some regional areas differ) |
Is the Melbourne Cup a public holiday?
In Victoria, yes. It is the only state that lists Melbourne Cup Day among its statewide public holidays, and some regional areas hold their holiday on a different date.
Is the Melbourne Cup in the school term?
Yes. In 2026 and 2027 the date falls in Term 4 in every state. See the Victorian school holidays and term dates.
How many days until the Melbourne Cup?
Counting down...
The countdown runs to Melbourne Cup day, the first Tuesday in November. It is a public holiday in Victoria.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Melbourne Cup 2027?
Tuesday 2 November 2027.
Do other states get the day off?
Not as a statewide public holiday. Check your local council or employer for local arrangements.
Is it a long weekend?
Not usually, because it falls on a Tuesday. Some people take the Monday as leave; see the Victorian long weekends page for leave ideas.
More dates
Victorian public holidays 2027 · AFL Grand Final Friday · Public holidays 2027