The festivities will kick off at Chester Racecourse as the much-anticipated Roman Day returns on May 31st, 2025. With eight thrilling races and a host of interactive activities set against the backdrop of Chester’s historic charm, this event promises an unforgettable experience for both racing enthusiasts and families.
While the racing action takes center stage, special attractions like Zog the Dragon will delight younger racegoers. Zog will appear on the Open Course throughout the day, engaging fans and adding a magical touch to the occasion. Meanwhile, the Roman Stunt Show invites children to participate in a high-energy performance that brings ancient Roman culture to life—an entertaining and educational spectacle not to be missed.
Children’s activities such as the Pop-Up Play Village, Craft Camp, and Camp Curiosity will spark creativity and exploration. Bootcamp Challenges, Inflatable Slides, and the Bungee Run will test young adventurers’ strength and stamina. Adding to the cultural immersion, the Heritage Festival will spotlight the Roman legacy and Chester’s historic significance, offering a rich blend of education and entertainment.
The racing card opens at 1:35 pm with The Radnor Hills Maiden Fillies’ Stakes, a Class 4 race over 7f 1y offering £15,000 in prize money. Next up at 2:10 pm is The Handicap Stakes for Class 2 horses, featuring a lucrative £50,000 purse.
At 2:45 pm, the spotlight shifts to The British Stallion Studs EBF Novice Stakes, a 6f 17y contest also for Class 2 horses, with a prize value of £30,000.
The Kingkabs Handicap Stakes follows at 3:20 pm, a Class 4 endurance test over 1m 7f 196y worth £15,000. This leads into The Seat Unique Handicap Stakes at 3:55 pm, run over 1m 4f 63y, again for Class 4 runners chasing £15,000.
The day continues with The Kids Pass Fillies’ Handicap Stakes at 4:30 pm, a 6f 17y sprint for 3-year-old fillies, exclusively for Class 4 competitors, offering £15,000 in prize money.
The closing races include The Going Is Good Handicap Stakes, divided into two Class 4 divisions. Both divisions will be contested over 1m 2f 70y, with Division 1 at 5:05 pm and Division 2 at 5:35 pm, each boasting a £15,000 prize fund.
This high-energy event blends exciting thoroughbred racing with an engaging lineup of family-friendly attractions, ensuring something for every age. Roman Day at Chester is not just about the horses—it’s about history, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss this epic celebration of racing and heritage. See you at the races!