Melbourne Cup Carnival 2026: Getting to Flemington and Home with LEFKO

*Image: Flemington Racecourse, via Wikimedia Commons (free licence).*

The 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival runs from Saturday 31 October to Saturday 7 November, with more than 280,000 racegoers expected at Flemington Racecourse. It is the busiest week of the year for rides in Melbourne.

The key race days

• Derby Day – Saturday 31 October

• Melbourne Cup Day – Tuesday 3 November (race at 3pm)

• Oaks Day – Thursday 5 November

• Stakes Day – Saturday 7 November

The big exit rush

Arrivals are spread across the morning, but tens of thousands of people try to leave together after the last race, around 5:15pm. On Cup Day, ride requests almost stop just before 3pm while the country watches the race, then jump straight after.

Tips for racegoers

• Book your ride home early in the LEFKO app, or schedule it in advance before you leave the house.

• Walk a few streets away from the main gates for a faster pickup.

• Share your trip with friends or family from the app, and always check the car and plate before you get in.

• Plan to leave a little before or well after the last race to avoid the busiest window.

Fair prices on LEFKO

LEFKO prices go up a little around Flemington on race days because so many people want a ride at once, but our surge is capped — so you won't see the crazy fares people often get on race day. You see your price before you book, and it includes GST.

Drivers: this is your week

LEFKO drivers get race-day jobs around Flemington first. Turn on your app early, keep your phone charged, and watch your trip offers from late morning on race days. Not driving with LEFKO yet? Sign up in the LEFKO Driver app and get ready for the Carnival.

Enjoy the races, and ride safe with LEFKO.