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06 Dec 2025

Irish Derby marking big milestone at Curragh in Kildare this year

Racegoers will experience high-stakes competition, dazzling fashion, and vibrant live entertainment

Irish Derby marking big milestone at Curragh in Kildare this year

Celebrity chef and style icon Clodagh McKenna has been named Lead Fashion Judge for the coveted Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Best Dressed Competition, taking place on Sunday, 29th June

Reporter:

Kildare Reporter

30 May 2025 11:59 AM

Get ready for an exhilarating weekend of speed, style, and spectacle as the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival returns to The Curragh Racecourse in Kildare from Friday, 27th June to Sunday, 29th June 2025.
This year marks a milestone celebration of 160 years of the Irish Derby, a race steeped in prestige and tradition, continuing to be one of the most thrilling equestrian events in the world.
Over three unforgettable days, racegoers will experience high-stakes competition, dazzling fashion, and vibrant live entertainment, making it a must-attend occasion for racing enthusiasts, music fans, style lovers, and families alike.
Irish Derby Weekend 
  • Friday evening 27th June features the Corinthian Challenge race, a very special event in aid of the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. 
  • Saturday, 28th June features the renowned Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes, setting the stage for a day of top-tier action. Also taking place on Saturday is The Sherry Fitzgerald Country Homes Ladies Derby, showcasing the strength and skill of female jockeys at The Curragh.
  • On Sunday, 29th June, the excitement reaches its pinnacle with the prestigious Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, a race that continues to define legends on the track.
The style stakes are high throughout the weekend with The K Club’s Most Stylish Racegoer, judged by comedy creator, Kayleigh Trappe, taking place on Saturday 28th June and celebrity chef and style icon Clodagh McKenna has been named Lead Fashion Judge for the coveted Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Best Dressed Competition, taking place on Sunday, 29th June.
Expect show-stopping looks, sophisticated glamour, and fierce competition throughout the festival as Ireland’s most stylish racegoers vie for the titles. There will also be live music post-racing on Friday with The Classic Beatles and The Whistlin’ Donkeys will bring the festival to a close on Sunday evening following racing.
The festival is more than just racing—it is a full weekend of entertainment, featuring live music, fabulous food, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're there for the adrenaline-pumping races, to indulge in the fashion festivities, or simply to soak up the electrifying atmosphere, there is something for everyone at The Curragh.
For more details and to purchase tickets, including hospitality, visit www.curragh.ie.

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