Not only does the Melbourne Cup ‘Stop The Nation’, it also brings most of Melbourne to a grinding halt. The first Tuesday in November has been a Melbourne tradition since 1861, although the race didn’t move to that day until 1875.
Melbourne Cup Tradition
For most people in Melbourne, Tuesday is a day off. Barbecues are the norm, and most people put a bit of money on the sweep and the race. 100,000 go to the race itself in Flemington.
All over, people stop and watch the race.
Public Holiday
Melbourne cafes have the choice of opening on the day.
Cafe Contact will be operating as usual for the day.
