Nup to the Cup: The ethical Melbourne Cup Day alternative in Canberra

Posted on 30 September, 2025

If you love to dress up, enjoy great entertainment, sip cocktails (or mocktails), and spend an afternoon with friends — but the idea of Melbourne Cup doesn’t quite sit right with you — Canberra now has a new tradition worth getting behind.

On Tuesday 4 November, Nup to the Cup at The Howling Moon is bringing a fresh spin to Cup Day: all the fun and fancy, none of the horse racing. Picture rooftop views over Braddon stretching towards Civic, live music setting the scene, and a spread of delicious catering.

A silent auction will showcase unique and beautiful items, door prizes will surprise and delight, and “fashions off the field” offers the chance to win amazing prizes.

I know many of us have celebrated the Melbourne Cup in years past but I know  I have become less and less comfortable frocking up and celebrating a day as I learn more about the negatives.

This will be the first year of the event, which promises to become bigger and better each year as more and more people choose to frock up without the horse racing element.

The inaugural event will be hosted by the fabulous Jolene (aka InkBits) – a local artist known for serving sass, suaveness, and satire in equal measure. Jolene will not only MC the afternoon but also bring bold performances, sharp humour, and plenty of fun to the stage. Music will be provided by the dynamic nonbinarycode duo, delivering live sets that promise to keep the energy high and the vibe playful.

But entertainment is only part of the package. As you sip your cocktails and mocktails you can take part in our silent auction, with prizes donated by local ethical businesses. Or if fashion is your flavour you can participate in Fashions Off the Field, judged by some local Canberra celebrities.  Whether you’re a seasoned fashionista or you’ve upcycled a fit from your local thrift store, it’s all about celebrating creativity and community spirit.

Tickets are designed to cater for everyone to join — from individuals through to corporate tables – everyone is welcome.  Each ticket includes entry to the event, live entertainment, delicious food, a signature cocktail or mocktail upon arrival and unlimited soft drinks. Guests can purchase their own alcoholic drinks at the bar, making it a relaxed and flexible afternoon. For those feeling extra generous, the “pay it forward” option is a beautiful way to ensure everyone has the opportunity to be part of the celebration, regardless of circumstances.

Importantly, this event is about more than just a great afternoon out. By joining us, you’re directly supporting social and environmental consciousness, animal welfare, and grassroots community action. The event is brought to you by the ACT Greens and Little Oak Sanctuary, a local haven for rescued farm animals. The event is also developed with the support of the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses, who run the Nup to the Cup campaign each year.

So this year, instead of spending Cup Day watching horses race on a screen, why not gather your friends, dust off your fanciest fascinator (or invent your own creative headpiece), and head to the rooftop at The Howling Moon? You’ll be part of an uplifting, ethical, and joyful alternative that captures all the excitement and connection of Cup Day.

This Nup to the Cup event marks the beginning of a new Canberra tradition. One that’s inclusive, vibrant, and values-driven. One that proves we can have celebration and style  — while choosing compassion every time.

Feature image via the Howling Moon Facebook page.