New Year's Day Raceday to return to Windsor Racecourse after almost 30 years

The popular New Year’s Day Raceday is making a comeback to Royal Windsor Racecourse after almost three decades in January.

The event, designed to be a family celebration, features horse racing and a programme of entertainment, live performances and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages on Thursday, January 1.

Youngsters aged 17 and under can attend for free and enjoy access to children’s activities.

Guests will be treated to a wide range of children’s entertainment, including the popular Pet Man Animal Encounters, who will be on site all day with a range of reptiles and insects for children to see.

There will also be free children’s face painting available, as well as pony rides.

Equiciser, a mechanical horse, will give both children and adults the chance to experience what it feels like to be a jockey.

There will also be organised jockey signings taking place throughout the day, giving families a chance to meet their racing heroes.

Visitors will enjoy entertainment across the racecourse, with vintage vocal harmony trio The Bluebird Belles performing hits from the 1920s to the present day.

Members of the Windsor Full Ceremonial Light Cavalry will also be in position at key points around the course, including at entrances and the Winners’ Enclosure, offering a ceremonial presence and photo opportunities.

Jimmy Wallace, executive director of Royal Windsor Racecourse, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming the New Year’s Raceday back to Windsor Racecourse.

“It was a hugely popular event and after nearly 30 years we’re looking forward to making it a fixture in the calendar once again for families to enjoy in the years to come.”

For more information, visit: https://www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk/whats-on/new-years-day-racing-2026