- Tuesday 3rd November
- 12:00am pm - 5:00pm
- j.pikioune@gmail.com
- +678 774 1913
Melbourne Cup
- Tuesday 3rd November
- 12:00am pm - 5:00pm
- j.pikioune@gmail.com
- +678 774 1913
Detail
Every year, communities in Port Vila come together to celebrate the iconic Melbourne Cup in a vibrant atmosphere filled with high fashion, excitement, and good spirits. The event has become more than just a horse race — it is a social highlight where visitors and locals gather at sports bars and pubs to enjoy the thrill of the race live. Alongside the celebrations, the Melbourne Cup also supports meaningful causes, such as the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in 2025, bringing awareness and unity to the community while embracing the festive spirit
Location
Port Vila
Frequently Asked Questions
The calendar mixes kastom ceremonies, music festivals and sport. Land diving on Pentecost, the Rom dances of Ambrym, Fest'Napuan and Fete de la Musique sit alongside rodeos, rallies and community celebrations. Port Vila has the densest public programme, while outer-island events follow village seasons. Check the Vanuatu Tourism Office events listing when you plan dates.
Kastom festivals are not staged extras; they mark harvest, rank, faith and island identity. Nagol land diving, Rom dance and island music nights show how ceremony, church and contemporary culture share the same year. Visitors are usually welcome when they come respectfully and follow local guidance. Arriving for a named festival is one of the best ways to see living tradition.
Town concerts, markets and advertised festivals are straightforward if you are already in Port Vila or Luganville. Village ceremonies may need an invitation, a guide or a custom fee, and dates can shift. Book travel early for well-known events such as land diving, and ask the Vanuatu Travel Information Centre or your host about access. Do not arrive unannounced at a private ceremony.