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Dust your fascinator off, get your fancy on and join the party at Addington Cup Week 2020.

It’s the fashion, entertainment and racing event of the year. Addington Cup Week is the ideal opportunity to join the best of Canterbury and party it up, enjoying the sun with your pick of spectacular food, wine and beer from some of Christchurch and the South Island’s top creators at Addington Raceway & Events Centre.

IRT NZ Trotting Cup Day on Tuesday 10 November is an occasion for celebration with racing, rockin’ entertainment and extravagant fashion. With hospitality areas available for hire, IRT NZ Trotting Cup Day is an ultimate hosting and networking experience for thanking clients, staff and friends. There are limited tickets this year, and as of the start of October five popular hospitality areas had already sold out. Venture into The Edge Public Village to have an epic experience where you will be right in the heart of the action for all the racing, entertainment and food, including food trucks and the Speight’s Lawn. Avoid the general admission queues and get a free glass of bubbly on arrival at the Lindauer Lawn, drink some quality beer with a buddy in the two-person Emerson’s Tiny Pub at Emerson’s Village.

If you love to dress up and know in your heart you’ve always belonged on a catwalk, don’t miss The Crossing Fashion Starts Here Best Dressed Competition, an always-popular feature of the IRT NZ Trotting Cup Day. Win bragging rights with a show-stopping outfit and get in the running to win fancy ribbons and thousands of dollars in prizes. Nothing says a day at the races more than an outrageous hat, fascinator or hairpiece, so channel your inner aristocrat, coordinate your outfit with the ultimate in accessories, and have a bit of fun with it. Men, match a swanky hat to your pocket square or tie, and you’ll get that added sun protection as a fashionable bonus. For some tips on picking out the perfect attire, see our Q&A with competition judge Lou Heller on page 79.

The Show Day Races on Friday 13 November will be a day out to remember, and a fantastic way to celebrate Canterbury’s Anniversary Day. Open to all for a gold coin donation to Māia Health Foundation – entry comes with access to hospitality and viewing areas including the Lindauer Lawn and Christian Cullen Lounge. Packages are available in the Blossom Lady Lounge and Terror To Love Lounge for those looking for a more exclusive and luxe experience with a great view of the final stretch. addington.co.nz HOT TIPS There are no gate sales this year. Pace yourself and carry sunblock. Take advantage of the free water and sample the delicious eats. Crack out your most boss pair of heels, and make sure you can actually walk in them. Maybe pack emergency flats for the sore-footed future you. Save time lining up for a flutter on the day and download the TAB mobile app in advance. Consider booking an all-inclusive package with no queues and a dedicated space to rest your legs. Bring a power bank. There’s nothing worse than running out of juice when it’s time to book your Ola or Uber.