Horse racing fans have already had their fair share of action so far in 2025, with the electrifying Cheltenham Festival in March and the dramatic Grand National in April.
However, as always, there are more excellent displays of equine sports and opportunities for horse racing betting on the menu, and the Irish Derby Festival is a great example.
The Irish Derby Festival returns to the Curragh Racecourse from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th June 2025, and it’s safe to say that fans and racing enthusiasts alike are in for a promising weekend of top-class racing, sleek fashion, and entertainment in County Kildare.
Read on, where we give you the lowdown on this year’s upcoming renewal and share some important things to know before the races kick off in June.
The storied history
The treasured Irish Derby Festival has been lighting up the Curragh since 1866, when the very first race galloped onto the scene.
The contest was inspired by England’s Epsom Derby, and it didn’t take long to become Ireland’s most prestigious flat event. Over the years, the Derby has transformed into a full-blown summer celebration, with a Festival that comes alive with high fashion, live music, and electric energy from fans.
Many legends have been made on the track, from horses like Galileo and Shergar, to trainers like Aidan O’Brien who dominate the festival year after year. The unforgettable memories and mix of sporting drama and festival flair are what keep the Irish Derby a jewel in the crown of Irish racing.
The race days in the Festival
Fans are in for three days of great action come June 27th. The days of the Festival are as follows:
Friday: Opening night excitement
The festival kicks off on Friday evening, where fans will be in for a lively race meeting featuring several handicap races and the most prestigious race for apprentice jockeys – the Apprentice Derby. The highlight of the evening is the Corinthian Challenge, a charity race supporting the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. These great races, paired with lively entertainment, always set the tone for the weekend ahead.
- Saturday: Ladies’ day and group races
Saturday afternoon is all about glamour, style, and high-quality racing. The feature races of the day include the Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes and the Group 2 Airlie Stud Stakes. And, of course, fashion takes centre stage on Ladies Day, offering phenomenal prizes for the best-dressed attendees. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the racing drama stays high.
Sunday: The main event
The build-up to the annual Irish Derby Festival comes to its action-packed climax on Sunday, with the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby. This race represents the pinnacle of the Irish flat racing calendar. This Group 1 Classic race attracts top three-year-old colts and fillies from Ireland and beyond to compete in a one-mile and four-furlong race.
Beyond the track
The festival isn’t just about racing – it’s a celebration of Irish culture and hospitality. Attendees can take the opportunity to explore local attractions, enjoy fine dining, and participate in various social events surrounding the races.
The Curragh’s proximity to Dublin also allows for easy access to the city’s amenities, enhancing the overall experience of fans who want to explore the rich history of Ireland.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing bettor who’s eagerly anticipating this year’s renewal, or a newcomer fan who’s visiting the Festival for the first time, the Irish Derby Festival 2025 at the Curragh promises an unforgettable blend of sport, style, and drama.
