The Cup is a fancy summer event featuring horse races, live music, art displays and more at Vancouver’s Hastings Racecourse in July each year.
In 2024 the event took place on Saturday, July 20th. This was the same weekend as the Honda Celebration of Light fireworks competition, Port Moody Ribfest, a Fireworks Boat Party, Surrey Fusion Festival and a number of other major festivals and events.
The first two of the above other events are both amazing and free. In addition to fireworks and barbecued ribs, they both also feature live music. The Surrey Fusion Festival is also both free and lots of fun.
To learn about what else is happening this month, see our July Calendar of Events. To learn more about the Cup, continue reading.
This article contains the following information about The Cup:
When and Where | Admission | Event Schedule | Activities | Event Video | Other Information
The Cup (Formerly the Deighton Cup)
Taking place in Vancouver each summer, The Cup is a stylish and adult-only event. Formerly known as the Deighton Cup, the event began in 2008 and has run most years since then. It’s a popular tradition that attracts over 10,000 people.
At the event people dress to impress and spend up to about seven hours at the venue. There are eight horse races that take place throughout the afternoon, and there are plenty of other things to see and do as well. Guests have the opportunity to take in local art, live music, craft cocktails and more.
About halfway through the event there is a fashion show and competition. It’s one of the reasons why everyone dresses so formally. The best-dressed guest wins a Styles Stakes cash prize and gets their name engraved on the event’s trophy.
When and Where
The Cup takes place at Hastings Racecourse at the PNE during the summer each year. The venue is at 188 North Renfrew Street in the City of Vancouver. In 2024 the event happened on Saturday, July 20th. Festivities usually begin at 12:00 pm and run until 7:00 pm. The exact date for the event in 2025 is to be confirmed.
Due to the limited amount of parking available at the venue, organizers of the event recommend using public transit, taxi or other riding services.
Note: Horsepower 4 Horsepower is held at the same venue in September. It’s a fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House that features luxury cars, horse races and more.
Admission to the Cup
Pre-sale general admission (which typically sells out) starts at $65. You can purchase advance tickets after that at either $75 and $85. The regular admission price is $95.
For people wanting a more luxurious experience, there are different ticket packages available as well. Grandstand Private Boxes for four people costs around $750 and comes with a bottle of champagne. Trackside Private Booths seats eight to 10 people and sells at around $3,850. This option features amazing seats, suite branding and a large bottle of champagne.
For those who want something extra fancy for a larger group, Silks Stadium Club hosts up to 200 guests and includes private tables for guests and private betting tables. This exclusive option has in the past been priced at $30,125. Grandstand Private Suites, meanwhile, cost around $6,000 and include admission for 30 people, plus 30 drink tickets, a private bar and more.
The Cup Schedule
Doors typically open at noon. There are usually four races during the first half of the event. They start at approximately 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm and 3:30 pm respectively.
Halfway through the event an Emergence Fashion Show hits the main stage. The short runway spectacle is followed by the Style Stakes competition which is the part of the event where the best-dressed guest is awarded the grand prize.
The Style Stakes winner receives $1,000 and their name on The Cup trophy. Sometimes the winner gets to be a judge the following year!
The second set of races begins after the fashion competition ends. Start times are usually 3:55 pm, 4:25 pm, 4:55 pm, 5:25 pm and 5:55 pm. Everything finishes and people head home by 7:00 pm.
(NOTE: Exact times and other details are subject to change.)
The Cup Event Activities
The Cup isn’t just a horse racing event. It’s an elegant affair featuring many other things to enjoy. Throughout the day, guests don’t have to watch all of the races. In fact, exploring the concourse is recommended.
The art showcase component of The Cup usually features many different art forms. There can be murals, installations, performance pieces and even artists painting live in front of everyone. Featured artists in years past have included Zac George and David Ullock. Artists for 2024 were to be confirmed at the time of writing.
Live music takes place on the Botanist Live Stage. 2024’s lineup included Brandi Cyrus, Young Bombs and DJ Johnny Jover. In past years, other pop-up festivities have included the Cigar Lounge, Rosé Garden and Risotto Party. 2024 was likely comparable, although exact details were to be confirmed.
Event Video
For an idea of what to expect at The Cup, watch the video below. It features DJ music and dancing from a previous year, which was only one highlight of the full event.
Other Information
To learn more about the event, visit the Come Get Fancy website.
Other articles that might be of interest include the following:
- Vancouver Boat Parties
- Horsepower 4 Horsepower
- Punchbowl Festival
- Drive 4 Smiles
- Diner en Blanc Event
- Vancouver Shows and Entertainment
- July Calendar of Events