Down Royal ready for the off with two day Summer Festival

The action starts on Friday, June 22 with the Lisburn Road Day at the Races featuring The Tote Galway Plate Trial, while Saturday’s race card not only features the Magners Derby, the richest flat race of the year in Northern Ireland, but also the much anticipated Best Dressed Lady competition.

Around 11,000 people are expected to attend the event, which is firmly established as a highlight of the social, as well as, the sporting calendar.

Create your perfect outfit for Ladies Day on Magners Derby Race Day and you could walk away with the Best Dressed Lady prize. One lucky winner will swap the racecourse for the runway in Monaco, Europe’s playground for the rich and famous; the prize includes return flights to Nice, four nights in 4 star hotel accommodation, helicopter transfers and £500 spending money.

The first race on Friday is at 5.45pm (approx.). Gates open from 3.30pm and entrance is £12 per person. On Magners Derby Day Saturday gates will be open from 12pm and the first race starts at 2:10pm (approx.) Admission is £15. Entrance tickets can be purchased online, from the racecourse office or at the turnstiles on the day. Concession admission is £10 on June 22 and £12 on June 23. Children under 16 receive free admission on both days.

Limited Edition Punters Packs are available for Friday for only £22, which includes: Entrance, racecard, £5 bet, a pint, hot beef roll and admission to the Private Paddock Marquee.

Hospitality packages are available, tables can accommodate up to 12 people and bookings for smaller or larger parties are welcome.

The Dark Horse Café and Wine Bar will be open to the public for both days of the Summer Festival.