Goodwood Racecourse has officially announced the May Festival 2025, bringing exciting news for racegoers and fans of British flat racing. The two-day festival will kick off on May 23rd and conclude on May 24th, 2025, promising a stellar lineup of races and entertainment. This annual fixture offers a fantastic mix of high-quality racing, with three listed races, alongside fan experiences that make the event unmissable.
The festival begins on Friday, May 23rd, with energy and enthusiasm. Gates open at 11:30 am, allowing racegoers plenty of time to enjoy the amenities, mingle, and prepare for a full day of racing action. The racing will commence at 14:05 with the British Stallion Studs EBF Novice Stakes, setting the pace for the afternoon. The Racing To School Reaches 250,000 Handicap Stakes follows at 14:40, a tribute to an incredible educational milestone. Next up is the British Stallion Studs EBF Fillies’ Handicap Stakes at 15:15, keeping the excitement alive.
The Festival Stakes, a Listed Race, takes place at 15:50 and is the feature race of the day. It holds significant importance for connections looking to elevate their horses on the racing ladder. Following that, the Handicap Stakes at 16:25 continues the competitive card. The penultimate race, The Goodwood Horseracing Club Membership Handicap Stakes, goes off at 16:55, offering more action before the day concludes with The Race for Chichester Cathedral 950 Years Handicap Stakes at 17:30.
Racegoers will also get a unique opportunity to visit the starting stalls during selected races—specifically the second, fourth, and sixth—offering a closer look at the pre-race tension and preparation. This immersive experience adds another layer of engagement to the first day of racing.
The final day of the festival, Saturday, May 24th, is the premier raceday and features two listed races that are key fixtures in the British flat racing calendar. The day opens with the Harroways Handicap Stakes at 13:30, welcoming fans to enjoy early afternoon racing. At 14:05, the British Stallion Studs EBF Cocked Hat Stakes—a Listed Race—takes center stage and is expected to attract strong contenders.
Next on the card is the James Reid 60th Birthday EBF Maiden Fillies’ Stakes at 14:35, followed by the prestigious Height Of Fashion Stakes at 15:15, another Listed Race known for its rich heritage and competitive field. The excitement continues with the Handicap Stakes at 15:45, followed by the Darley British EBF Fillies’ Restricted Novice Stakes at 16:20, offering fans a glimpse of promising newcomers. The festival concludes with the Goodwood Horseracing Club Membership Handicap Stakes at 16:55, wrapping up the weekend with a memorable finish.
Beyond the races, the Bank Holiday atmosphere will be in full swing. Racegoers can relax in well-equipped enclosures offering comfortable seating and premium food and beverage options. Live music performances will add to the ambiance, ensuring an unforgettable day out. The combination of thrilling competition, festive entertainment, and community celebration ensures that the Goodwood May Festival 2025 is an unmissable event on the UK racing calendar. Let’s witness the rise of the champions together this May!
