Must See Events at Chester Racecourse 

Chester Racecourse is the nearest place to see quality horse racing for residents of Deeside. Luckily, it is one of the UK’s greatest courses. Steeped in history, it has a whole programme of events including racing and other exciting entertainment forms. Below, we provide three must-see events when it comes to Chester Racecourse.  

May Festival 

Chester Racecourse is vitally important in the UK fixtures list as it is the world’s oldest racecourse that is still in operation. It is also one of the smallest, meaning races are fast and furious and often only the best sprinters prevail. There are several meetings and races fans should try to attend, with the highlight coming in the May Festival with the Cheshire Oaks and Chester Cup races.  

This year, a dynamic pricing system was introduced so you can save a lot of money by booking early. The tickets also fill up fast, much faster than other courses. This is for two reasons. The first is that Chester Racecourse is very close to the city centre, making it a fantastic getaway and it is easy to return home or to the hotel and shops after a meeting.  

The second is because of the explosion in the popularity of horse racing in the area. Technology has allowed increased access to everything from betting to share ownership for dedicated and casual racing fans. Quality horses for flat courses like Chester or potential up-and-coming horses for jump racing like the Jolly Nellerie race horse can be owned, in part, for very little. This has meant more spectators than ever booking up seats and hospitality.  

Summer Music Weekend 

As the flat racing season reaches its peak, the course is often opened up to several live music events. The highlight of this is the Summer Music Weekend, a great festival of sights and sounds that brings the best of the Balearics to Chester. This year, one of the most exciting acts is Ibiza in Symphony.  

This will see classic club tracks from the likes of Faithless, Swedish House Mafia and ATB reimagined with a whole orchestra. Think swirling strings and soaring staccatos on some of the most iconic electro tracks of all time.  

Another highlight will be DJ Craig Charles, playing at Soul Sunset Racing. The actor and DJ is a well-known fan of classic soul and grooves and will be bringing his unique vinyl collection to get the crowd pumping.  

Oktoberfest 

Oktoberfest has become an annual event at Chester Racecourse. It marks the end of the flat season and does it in style with German drama. Imagine beer steins, lederhosen and plenty of sausage and you are on the right track.  

Not many people know that this Munich-based folk festival had its beginnings at a race meeting. Organised to celebrate the birthday of the Prince Regent Ludwig of Bavaria in 1810, it originally lasted for five whole days. Celebrate at Chester and take part in the fancy dress competition, enjoy beer tasting and live music.  

There are plenty of other events throughout the year and the course can be booked out for conferences and private events. It is close to the city, so accommodation is always on hand. Check the schedule and book your next event at Chester.