Community - Chester Racecourse

Chester Racecourse

Community

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Welcome NEIGHbour!

We’ve been part of this historic city since the days when Henry VIII was on the throne – so you could say we know the place pretty well. Nearly 500 years on, and being a good neighbour is still a big deal for us. So, we’ve created this page to keep you in the know and part of the story.

Here you’ll find the latest updates on what’s happening at the racecourse, along with the steps we’re taking to keep disruption down and community spirit up. From big race days and events to the quiter moments in between, we’re all about staying open, considerate, and connected with the people who live and work around us.

What To Expect

Our Commitment

Frequently Asked Questions

Get In Touch

What You Can Expect To Find

Racedays & Major Events

Raceday schedules and key dates
Post-racing music and live entertainment
Large Operational Activity non-raceday events (concerts, festivals and private events)

Operational Activity

Sound checks and production rehearsals
Build and de-rig schedules
Early morning or late-night activity where relevant

Travel & Access

Road closures and traffic management plans
Parking arrangements and travel advice
Public transport guidance on busier days

Community Engagement

Community meetings and liaison updates
Volunteering and community opportunities
Local partnerships and charity activity

Our Commitment To You

Minimising disruption wherever possible.
Keeping you informed in advanced.
Listening and responding to your feedback.
Working collaboratively with local residents and stakeholders.

Supporting The Local Community

Family Fun Day Pantomime Race

Our annual Family Fun Day is a perfect way for us to give back to the community. The Open Course packed with fun fair rides, inflatables and interactive educational workshops – with free tickets for children and all activities included, ensuring the day is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

One of the true highlights is the much‑loved Pantomime Race. Costumed horses, zebras, unicorns, polar bears and reindeer line up to race down the final furlong, creating a fun, memorable spectacle for all ages.

While the performances always raise smiles, the race also serves a more meaningful purpose. The Pantomime Race helps raise vital funds for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd, which provides essential end‑of‑life care and support to local individuals and families.

The Lord Mayor's Fireworks Extravaganza

Each year, the racecourse works in partnership with the Lord Mayor of Chester to host this much‑loved community event. The fireworks extravaganza provides a safe, accessible and family‑friendly environment for people across Chester and the surrounding areas to come together. Importantly, the event is also a major fundraising initiative, supporting local charities and community projects through ticket sales and donations.

Following a record‑breaking fireworks event in 2025, we raised £35,000 of which we donated £10,000 towards the creation of the Storyhouse Skills Studio, a facility designed to support young people and creatives in the city. This contribution helped fund specialist equipment and resources, providing new opportunities for skills development within Chester’s cultural sector.

Bucket Collections

After every raceday, we keep the good vibes going with our bucket collections for local charities. Each raceday shines a spotlight on a different cause, giving our visitors the chance to make a little change – and a big difference.

So if you spot our cheerful collectors on your way out, feel free to drop in a coin or two… it’s kindness straight from the heart of our community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the racecourse busier at certain times of the year?

The racing calendar and summer events season naturally mean increased activity, particularly between May and September. To see everything that’s coming up, check out our ‘What’s On’ page here – What’s On – Chester Racecourse

How far in advance will updates be shared?

Wherever possible, we aim to share information several weeks in advance, particularly for major events.

When are your music events in 2026?

Alongside our racing, we also have certain fixtures which feature live music after racing. For 2026, these will be:

Friday 10th July – Ibiza Classics Evening with Ibiza In Symphony In Partnership With Excell Supply

Saturday 11th July – Music Weekend Saturday With The Bootleg Beatles In Partnership With Excell Supply

Friday 14th August – Tom Jones & Nile Rogers & CHIC

Saturday 22nd August – Powells Jewellery Ladies Day Featuring Marvin Humes

Who do you work with when planning events?

We work closely with Cheshire West and Chester Council, local authorities, emergency services, transport providers and community stakeholders when planning activity.

GET IN TOUCH

We value your feedback and want to hear from you! If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please contact our Guest Services at enquiries@chester-races.com

We aim to respond as quickly as possible and will always take your feedback seriously.

Please note: This page will be regularly updated as new events and activity are confirmed. We recommend checking back periodically, particularly during the racing season or major event periods.