The Punchestown Festival 2026 in Kildare kicks off today with organisers promising a bigger and more expansive event every day until Saturday. More than 130,000 racegoers are expected across the five-day festival, with advance ticket sales already pointing towards a record attendance.
With favourable weather forecast, the Racecourse of the Year is preparing to build on last year’s success.
A total of 40 races will be staged, with leading Irish and British contenders competing for a record €3.6 million prize fund. All photographs by Aishling Conway. — The Punchestown Festival 2026 in Kildare kicks off today with organisers promising a bigger and more expansive event every day until Saturday. More than 130,000 racegoers are expected across the five-day festival, with advance ticket sales already pointing towards a record attendance. With favourable weather forecast, the Racecourse of the Year is preparing to build on last year’s success. A total of 40 races will be staged, with leading Irish and British contenders competing for a record €3.6 million prize fund. All photographs by Aishling Conway.

placeholder image — The Punchestown Festival 2026 in Kildare kicks off today with organisers promising a bigger and more expansive event every day until Saturday. More than 130,000 racegoers are expected across the five-day festival, with advance ticket sales already pointing towards a record attendance. With favourable weather forecast, the Racecourse of the Year is preparing to build on last year’s success. A total of 40 races will be staged, with leading Irish and British contenders competing for a record €3.6 million prize fund. All photographs by Aishling Conway.

PICTURES: Some of best outfits at Punchestown Festival 2025

By Kildare Now Reporter

Published 27th Apr 2026, 20:32 GMT

With weather this great, why wouldn't you be beaming?

Marietta Doran

17.

Marietta Doran

Izzy and Audrey Cullen

18.

Izzy and Audrey Cullen

Rita Tighe and Bernie Lowe

19.

Rita Tighe and Bernie Lowe

Punchestown Punchestown Festival

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