And they're off! Punchestown 2026 on course to break records!
The Punchestown Festival 2026 in Kildare kicks off today with organisers promising a bigger and more expansive event every day until Saturday.
More than 130,000 racegoers are expected across the five-day festival, with advance ticket sales already pointing towards a record attendance.
With favourable weather forecast, the Racecourse of the Year is preparing to build on last year’s success.
A total of 40 races will be staged, with leading Irish and British contenders competing for a record €3.6 million prize fund.
Punchestown CEO Conor O’Neill said the event continues to grow beyond its sporting roots. “World class championship sport remains at the heart of what we do and alongside this our strategy is to enhance, elevate, and excel in an extremely competitive leisure and entertainment market,” he said. “The Punchestown Festival is big business, has a huge economic impact of over €70 million, boosts tourism by filling every hotel room in the region and attracts international interest from as far as the USA and Australia.”
Corporate hospitality has already sold out for midweek, with more than 24,000 guests from 800 companies expected to attend. Limited availability remains for Saturday despite expanded capacity and the introduction of the new Horse Walk venue.
Alongside top-class racing, the festival will feature live music, style events and new attractions, including the Kildare Village Grand Pavilion and an expanded family entertainment zone.
Organisers have urged racegoers to plan ahead, with the final ticket deal ending on April 26 and public transport strongly recommended, particularly on Festival Friday.