
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2026
St Patrick’s Thursday
Thursday 12th March
Irish ion raises the rafters and the battle for the Prestbury Cup heightens.
St. Patrick's Thursday is where the spirit of Cheltenham meets the soul of Ireland, creating an unmatched festival atmosphere that’s both joyous and fiercely competitive.
The day is a celebration of all things Irish, from the exhilarating cheers that echo from the stands to the thrilling races that unfold on the course. Feel the ion as the horses with Irish roots vie for glory, and witness the fervour of Irish racing fans, whose energy turns the racecourse into a sea of green and gold. At the centre of it all is the Ryanair Chase and the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle, two of the festival’s most anticipated events, where unforgettable performances and moments of glory are etched into Cheltenham history.