Welcome to Winter Festival 2023!
The new look Winter Festival will take place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th November 203.
What’s the new look?
There is a new racing line up. We have consolidated top quality races to create a brilliant Grade 1 double header across the weekend. The Unibet Morgiana takes place on Saturday and the famous John Durkan Chase is the star on Sunday. Like all great shows there is a brilliant supporting cast with the graded, rated, listed and cross country racing on offer.
Why has it moved date?
The new dates are a week later than normal which means our Winter Festival no longer clashes with Cheltenham. It also means a preferred lead in time for horses that may wish to run in the Durkan Chase and then target another festive feature race. The traditional Durkan meeting in December has also suffered from adverse weather in recent years so we’re hoping for better conditions in November.
Who will be there?
People make Punchestown and the Winter Festival is a great gathering of all ages. Seasoned racing fans rub shoulders with groups on a fun day out. Young families enjoy the free entertainment and Playroom area whilst friends and colleagues gather to enjoy top class dining and beverages in the restaurants. Punchestown has a great option for all budgets and requirements.
Times:
First race at 11.45 and last race around 4pm. At this time of year racing starts and finishes early for daylight hours. Bars and live music for one and a half hours after the last.
Hospitality Packages:
The ever popular Winter Festival Race & Dine package is a sell out every year. There are a selection of trackside restaurants and private suites to choose from. This weekend is ideal for special occasion celebrations and pre-Christmas gatherings. We are also delighted to welcome so many visitors from the UK. Talk to our hospitality team to secure your lovely social day out at Punchestown.
Transport:
There will be a shuttle bus back to Naas after racing both days. Please visit the getting here page for travel options.
Food:
If the Race & Dine package doesn’t suit don’t worry as the brilliant Lily & Wild catering team will be cooking up delicious food at good value. Visit The Feedroom for delicious hot and cold options at decent prices. The Hay Cafe on ground level of the grandstand offers really tasty hot and cold snacks and great coffee. All of our bars and cafes accept contactless payment. The bars will give cash back up to €100 where available.
Music:
There’s something comforting about the sound of live music playing from the bar as darkness falls after a great day of racing. Keep the craic going with The ??? band on level one of the grandstand. Remember that there will be buses outside for transport to Naas.
Family:
The end of November means we are well within our rights to get festive! Bring the little ones along for an afternoon of fresh air, gorgeous horses, hot chocolate and free games and activities in The Playroom. A special visitor will make an appearance. Family ticket is only €25 for two adults with kids.
What To Wear:
It’s Ireland….in November….so wrap up to enjoy the best of the day. If you are attending one of our restaurant or suite venues anything from smart casual to fully suited and booted is advised. There are plenty of comfortable indoor venues with great access to the parade ring and viewing stands.
Need to know more?
Please visit the FAQ’s section or Plan your Visit section. Our team are happy to assist in any way we can so drop us an email on info@punchestown.com or call +353 (0)45 897704
True Colours Childrens Competition Kindly Sponsored by Irish Dog Foods
WINNER – Ailbhe Carew (age 7) from Rathmore National
Visit our Facebook Page to see entries and feedback
This Punchestown will be a Festival of a different colour – what are your true colours?
Calling all junior jockeys! One of the coolest things about racing is the amazing colours that the jockeys wear.
This Punchestown Festival we would love for you to create your very own racing colours at home. This competition is strictly for primary school children only.
How To Enter?
- First up ask an adults permission to take part and help you get set up.
- Take an old school shirt, Dad or Mom shirt or t-shirt (always ask permission first).
- Create a design with paint, crayons, markers, fabrics, ribbons, glitter and/or whatever else looks cool.
- Allow to dry and take a picture of your True colours. You can model them, hang them or lay them flat for the picture.
- Please be aware that entries may be published on social media.
- Email a picture of your True Colours entry to info@punchestown.com. With the name, age, school, area of residence and contact number for parent or guardian.
- Competition closes Sunday 25th April and the jockeys competing at the 2021 Punchestown Festival will decide the winner on Saturday 1st May 2021.
Prize Details?
- €250 Smyths Toy voucher.
- Art and Hobby Hamper.
- Framed Winners Colours.
- A Pet Hamper for your Furry Friend.
We can’t wait to see what you come up with. On your marks, get-set, GO!