Betfred St Leger Festival 2026 - 250th Anniversary
The Doncaster Racecourse Betfred St Leger Festival is one of the most prestigious race weeks of the British horse racing calendar, and as 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the St Leger Stakes, this is an experience not to be missed!
The Days of Leger
The Betfred St Leger Festival is one of the highlights of the flat racing season. Thousands attend to watch history in the making across four thrilling days of action and excitement. On day three of the festival, we have the Group 1 Betfred St Leger Stakes. This historic race has been won by legendary horses over the decades, and jubilant crowds watch on to see a little piece of horse-racing history each year.
The opening day of the St Leger Festival brings the glamour as racegoers dress to impress for the chance to win the coveted Style Awards prize.
Ladies Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate style and sport together, as the May Hill Stakes and the Park Hill Stakes bring the standout racing action to the event.
The fun continues after racing with live entertainment, roaming performers, and a vibrant party atmosphere across the racecourse!
11th September - Betfred Gents Day
The second day of the Festival brings top-class racing to the table in the form of the oldest race still run under official rules - the Doncaster Cup. First run in 1766, this highlight of the flat racing calendar attracts top racing talent to Town Moor!
Racegoers can also enjoy live entertainment, delicious food and drink, and plenty of memorable moments alongside the thrilling racing action, making this the perfect group day out!
The biggest day of the week and home to the world’s oldest Classic and final of the season, the Betfred St Leger Stakes. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the first running of the St Leger Stakes, making this a truly special occasion and one celebration you won't want to miss!
A well-known saying among the racing community goes: “The fastest horse wins the Guineas, the luckiest the Derby, and the best horse wins the St Leger.” This prestigious race consistently attracts the leading stables from across the country and boasts a glittering roll of honour featuring some of the most celebrated horses in history.
13th September - Betfred Sunday Funday
The final day of the festival, the Betfred Sunday Funday, showcases great horse racing.
That’s not all! Get ready for a day of fun, with a whole host of FREE family-friendly entertainment on show across the course.
September 10, 2026 – September 13, 2026