The 5 Days of Royal Ascot: When Should You Attend?

As one of the most highly anticipated events on the British social calendar, the five days of Royal Ascot attract thousands of attendees each year. Each day brings something new to the event and no two are the same. Whether the focus is on the fashion or the fast steeds on the track, here is what you need to know about each day of the Royal Ascot…

Day 1: Tuesday

As the first day of Royal Ascot, spirits and anticipation are high. If you are a racing enthusiast, Tuesday is definitely a day you do not want to miss. The afternoon begins with three Group 1 races, including the Queen Anne Stakes. Later on, racegoers can watch horses sprint for the King’s Stand Stakes and the St. James’s Palace Stakes.

Day 2: Wednesday

Day 2 of Royal Ascot is often quite refreshing and relaxed, as the anticipation of Opening Day has died down. However, make no mistake, Wednesday’s races are still full of excitement. In fact, the day is anything but boring. Day 2 features three Group 2 races: the Queen Mary Stakes, the Queen’s Vase and the Duke of Cambridge Stakes. The Listed Windsor Castle Stakes also takes place, as well as the Royal Hunt Cup, which is typically the biggest betting race of the entire week.

Day 3: Thursday

If you are more into racing fashion than the racing itself, Thursday is the day for you. Unofficially known as Ladies Day, this day brings out the most glamorous looks out of the entire Royal Meeting. It is the day to show off millinery masterpieces and top-of-the-line summer fashion. Thursday is also a popular day because it hosts the most prestigious race of Royal Ascot: the Gold Cup. As Ascot’s oldest surviving race, the Gold Cup shows off some of the world’s top thoroughbred long-distance runners.

Day 4: Friday

On Day 4, the focus is back on the horses, with six top-class races on the schedule. The Coronation Stakes is a one-mile race for three-year-old fillies and the Commonwealth Cup is a vital race for young sprinters. Racing enthusiasts love the drama and excitement of Day 4 and it is also the perfect transition into the final days of Royal Ascot.

Day 5: Saturday

On the fifth and final day of the Royal Meeting, racegoers can witness the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes, which is a world-famous sprint race. There are also a few middle-distance and long distance races for viewers to watch. The engaging races are the perfect way to close out an exciting week. And, since Day 5 always falls on a Saturday, the atmosphere is calmer and the horses take center stage.

If you are lucky enough to attend all five days of Royal Ascot, enjoy the unique aspect that each new day brings. But, if you are planning on attending just one day, you are in for a real treat no matter which one you choose! You can check availability and ticket prices for attending the various Royal Ascot Enclosures at www.ascot.co.uk.

About the Author

Maggie Kreienberg is a contributing editor at BRIDES Magazine and is currently based in New York City. She graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in public relations in 2019.