Naas Racecourse sees return of Winter Best Dressed competition at Kildare track

Naas Racecourse in Co Kildare is delighted to announce the return of its highly anticipated Winter Best Dressed Competition on Sunday, 4th January 2026 featuring the Grade 1 Ballymore Novice Hurdle, a stylish start to the New Year that blends top-class racing with impeccable fashion. This year’s Best Dressed Competition will be judged by renowned fashion presenter and stylist Marietta Doran, who will crown the standout look of the day.

The 2026 Winter Best Dressed prize promises an unforgettable luxury weekend in County Kildare, combining a premium shopping spree with a lavish countryside escape. Naas Racecourse are thrilled to welcome back Frasers as the fashion partner for the third-year running. Located in Whitewater Shopping Centre in Newbridge, Frasers offers an elevated shopping experience showcasing luxury brands including Ralph Lauren, Barbour and Dior. 

Frasers continued support ensures the winner enjoys a truly indulgent weekend - especially with Whitewater less than 30 minutes from Kilkea Castle, the Co–Best Dressed partner and a new addition to the prize this year. Kilkea Castle, one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles, blends centuries of history with refined modern luxury. Set amid lush woodland and rolling Kildare countryside, it offers a serene retreat whether for a romantic getaway or a memorable celebration.

The winner of the Winter Best Dressed Competition will take home an exceptional prize that includes a €2,000 Frasers gift voucher to spend at their Whitewater Shopping Centre store, and they will also enjoy a fabulous two-night stay for two at the four-star, Kilkea Castle in  Co. Kildare.

The experience features afternoon tea in the castle, a memorable fine-dining evening in the 1180 Restaurant, and the chance to enjoy activities such as archery, air rifling and a round of golf. The runners-up on the day will each receive a €100 Frasers gift voucher, along with afternoon tea for two at Kilkea Castle.

Lead judge Marietta Doran shared her excitement ahead of the event “The Winter Best Dressed Competition at Naas Racecourse is always an incredible celebration of style, and this year will be no different. I’ll be looking for looks that blend creativity with seasonal elegance - beautifully layered outfits, rich textures, and accessories that show real personality. I love to see racegoers embrace the winter palette while still being bold and expressive. I can’t wait to see the fabulous fashion on show.”

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Reflecting on Kilkea Castle’s involvement, Adrian Mooney, Director of Sales at Kilkea Castle, said “We are delighted to partner with Naas Racecourse for the Winter Best Dressed Competition in January. Kilkea Castle is synonymous with style and impeccable taste, and this race meeting is perfectly in line with our brand. We very much enjoy collaborating with local partners and are delighted to work with the team at this great, local track.”

Niamh Byrne, Commercial & Marketing Manager at Naas Racecourse, added, “The Ballymore Grade 1 Novice Hurdle & Winter Best Dressed Competition is a highlight of our calendar, attracting both racing enthusiasts and fashion lovers. With Marietta Doran leading our judging panel and the prize bigger than ever thanks to our sponsors, this year’s event promises to be our biggest and most memorable yet. We’re excited to welcome everyone to Naas for a thrilling start to 2026.”

The Grade 1 Ballymore Novice Hurdle boasts a total prize fund of €100,000 which is testament to the interest in this contest and to the competitive field it attracts every year.  Every adult racegoer attending Naas Racecourse on Sunday 4th January will have the chance to enter into a special draw for a prize of €10,000. A sweepstake will take place on the day, with names drawn for each horse in one of the races. The racegoer whose name is paired with the winning horse will walk away with €10,000 - a prize of a lifetime.

The day also offers racegoers a fantastic mix of fashion, food and entertainment with lunch and hospitality available in its Panoramic Restaurant or in the many private suites.

There are seven races on the card on the day, with the first going to post at 12:25. Early bird admission tickets are €15 if purchased before 22nd December.  For further information, to purchase tickets or for hospitality packages call Naas Racecourse on (045) 897391 or go to www.naasracecourse.com