IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CURRAGH
Marking the start of the social season, here’s what you can expect at The Curragh’s Guineas Weekend …
May is our favourite month in Ireland when the social scene hots up with the weather. The light stretches longer, the calendar fills quickly and the rhythm of hooves signals the return of a special racing event in Kildare. On Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, The Curragh Racecourse opens the Irish Classic racing season in style with the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend – the first of the five Irish Classics and, for many, the unofficial start of summer’s sporting circuit.
It’s a weekend that effortlessly blends sport with spectacle. At its heart are two of the most prestigious races in the European calendar – the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas and the Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas – drawing elite horses, trainers and jockeys to one of the world’s most respected tracks. Sunday also sees the return of the Tattersalls Gold Cup, ranked among the top races globally in 2025, adding further weight to an already unmissable line-up.
But to focus solely on the racing would be to miss the point. Essential components are the entertainment and fashion. This year, that sense of occasion is heightened with the return of the Ashford Castle Style Icon Award on Saturday. This competition promises a refined yet playful take on race day dressing. Expect polished tailoring, contemporary millinery, and that elusive blend of elegance and individuality that defines great style. Judging the competition are stylist and broadcaster Marietta Doran, alongside Lisa Toomey of Ashford Castle. The winner will receive a two-night stay in one of the castle’s coveted suites – a prize that feels entirely in keeping with the glamour of the occasion.
Off the track, the weekend also unfolds with live performances in the Lilywhites Lounge which further adds to the ambiance. On Saturday, guests can look forward to an afterparty headlined by The Highstool Prophets whose blend of folk and country has earned them a devoted following. Expect a set that shifts from foot-stomping anthems to more soulful moments.
What makes the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend particularly appealing is its accessibility. Tickets begin at €25 with weekend options offering added value and under-18s welcomed free when accompanied by an adult. A complimentary shuttle service from nearby towns and train stations ensures that the experience remains as seamless as it is stylish. It’s a chance to dress up and mark the start of summer.
