Experience the glamour of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate in Cape Town

Cape Town’s premier social event of the summer, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate, is set to light up Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse on Saturday, 10 January 2026, offering a luxurious blend of high fashion, live jazz, and world-class thoroughbred racing. This spectacular affair promises an unforgettable day that celebrates the best of Cape Town’s vibrant culture, all nestled amidst breathtaking summer scenery.

Racegoers are invited to don their finest blue-and-white attire, a nod to the event’s iconic dress code, transforming the grandstands into a stunning vista of elegance. From the moment the gates open at 11:00, attendees can immerse themselves in a sophisticated atmosphere enhanced by the rhythm of live jazz from top local performers. Guests can sip on premium wines while savouring smooth saxophone solos and upbeat ensembles, seamlessly transitioning into a vibrant after-party that will keep the spirits high long after the last horse crosses the finish line.

Majestic Lipizzaner horses will grace the event with their breathtaking performances, providing an equestrian spectacle that perfectly complements the day’s theme of heritage blended with high energy. Meanwhile, fashion enthusiasts can revel in the excitement of the Best Dressed competitions, competing for coveted prizes from Cartier awarded for the most striking outfits in men’s, women’s, and hat categories. The Style Lounge will be abuzz with content creators capturing stunning ensembles amid pop-up bars and gourmet grazing stations, embodying the event's spirit as a must-not-miss gathering.

On the race track, adrenaline will surge as three Grade 1 races unfold, featuring the historic 165th running of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate over 1600m, a highlight of the day’s action. Anticipations are high, with early entries like the 2022/23 Equus Horse of the Year, Dave the King, along with champions such as Eight on Eighteen, KZN Raider Gladatorian, and 2025 Durban July winner, The Real Prince. Exciting newcomers, including Gimme Rules, Mon Petit Cherie, and Vapour Trail, will also add fresh intrigue to this elite showdown, ensuring a riveting day of racing as the field is finalised in late December.

The Festival of Racing will culminate at Kenilworth, positioning it as the lifestyle hub of the Western Cape where jazz, fashion, and turf thrills converge. As we eagerly anticipate the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met on 31 January, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate remains a cornerstone of the city’s summer calendar. Tickets for this exquisite event can be booked via Computicket, ensuring you don’t miss out on what promises to be Cape Town's definitive social highlight.

Ticket options are divided into two premium categories. The Style Lounge Village, priced at R600, grants access to the heart of the King’s Plate festivities, complete with fine wines, gourmet local food, racing action, and an after-party experience. Meanwhile, the exclusive Stud Club, available for R1,800, offers a prime vantage point overlooking the racecourse, luxurious amenities, and delectable culinary options, including selected complimentary wines and snacks throughout the event.