Nup to the Cup 2026 at Welcome to Thornbury

Racing Towards a Kinder Future

Tuesday 3 November 2026 | 12pm–8pm

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Celebrate compassion, community and cruelty-free living at Nup to the Cup 2026, an official Melbourne Cup Day alternative taking over Welcome to Thornbury on Tuesday 3 November.

Hosted by The Vegan Vegout and Woking Amazing food truck, this special event proudly supports the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses and the Nup to the Cup campaign, bringing people together to celebrate life beyond the racetrack.

Expect a full day of Melbourne's best vegan food, market stalls, DJs, flash tattoos, animal charities, cocktails, an epic prize draw and special guest speaker Georgie Purcell MP. Whether you're a longtime animal advocate, a passionate plant-based foodie or simply looking for a different way to spend Melbourne Cup Day, there's a place for you here.

Come for the food, stay for the community, and be part of a movement racing towards a kinder future.

What's On at Nup to the Cup 2026?

There's plenty happening throughout this cruelty-free celebration at Welcome to Thornbury.

  • Delicious vegan food: Discover plant-based eats and cruelty-free treats from Melbourne's vegan food scene.

  • Market stalls: Browse stalls celebrating ethical living, independent makers and animal-friendly products.

  • DJs and music: Soak up the atmosphere with tunes and good vibes throughout the day.

  • Flash tattoos: Mark the occasion with a little permanent expression.

  • Animal charities: Meet organisations working to protect animals and learn more about the causes they support.

  • Special guest speaker: Hear from Georgie Purcell MP.

  • Cocktails: Raise a glass to compassion and a kinder future.

  • Epic prize draw: Get involved in the festivities and be part of the day's celebrations.

FAQs

  • Nup to the Cup 2026 is an official Melbourne Cup Day alternative celebrating compassion, animal welfare, vegan food and community. The event takes place at Welcome to Thornbury on Tuesday 3 November 2026.

  • Nup to the Cup 2026 takes place on Tuesday 3 November 2026, from 12pm to 8pm.

  • Expect vegan food, market stalls, DJs, flash tattoos, animal charities, cocktails, a prize draw and special guest speaker Georgie Purcell MP.

  • Absolutely. Everyone is welcome, whether you're vegan, vegetarian, exploring plant-based food or simply looking for a different way to spend Melbourne Cup Day.

  • Nup to the Cup brings people together to celebrate animal welfare, community and cruelty-free living, offering a day of food, music and connection that celebrates life beyond racing.