Free New Year's Eve Punchestown races to mark 175 years

Punchestown Racecourse will celebrate a remarkable 175 years of racing heritage with a very special New Year’s Eve race meeting, offering free admission for all, generously supported by Tote, on Wednesday, 31 December. The track recently landed the 2025 Racecourse of the Year Award.  

The Kildare Races at Punchestown were first recorded in 1824. The event moved to various venues across the county before officially establishing Punchestown as its permanent home in 1850. From those early beginnings, what has become the Punchestown Festival has grown into an internationally recognised five-day celebration of top-class horse racing, culture and community spirit.

To honour this rich legacy, Punchestown is inviting everyone to come together on New Year’s Eve to celebrate 175 years of memorable sporting, historic and community moments: the construction of the first grandstand, the role of the La Touche Family, endurance through the Civil and World Wars, the famous Match Race of 1986, many racing dynasties, and the dominance of Irish racing talent.   

The New Year’s Eve meeting promises a festive, family-friendly atmosphere, with complimentary mince pies and mulled wine on arrival, while stocks last, live music by the Ballymore Band, and free children’s entertainment.

Gates open from 11am with the first race going to post at approximately 12.30pm. The Hay Café, The Feedroom and a selection of mobile eateries will provide tasty snacks, barista coffee, and hot food with something for everyone, whilst the bars will be serving up festive cheer.

For those looking to enhance their day and arrange something a bit special this New Year’s Eve, the very popular Trackside Race & Dine package is available to book online for €95pp, with a children’s menu available.

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