Here's what to expect at Musselburgh Races' legendary New Year's Day meeting

WHAT better way to start a New Year than with a day at the races, and where better to do that than Musselburgh Racecourse.

Musselburgh Races

There’s still time to snap up tickets for Musselburgh’s legendary Betway New Year’s Day raceday as it once again heads towards being a sell out. The hugely popular raceday has long been the place to be on the 1st of January, but with the start of a new decade, organisers have pulled out all the stops to ensure a celebration like no other this year.

The 2020 New Year’s raceday promises to be a great day out for the whole family filled with spectacular jump racing, a racing programme of more than £100,000 as well as the famed New Year’s Sprint, one of the most historic athletic events in the world.

New for 2020 are enhanced bar facilities and more pop-up bars for those looking to continue the festivities. Visitors can also enjoy live ceilidh music from Kilter, a DJ set from the brilliant Funkwagen, heated marquees, an extra 65m covered area along the side of the track.

There will also be plenty of seasonal food and drink throughout including boozy hot chocolate, haggis street food, Poke of Pigs (pigs in blankets with cranberry sauce), as well as gourmet hot dogs and dirty fries from favourite street food vendors, Dog n Bon.

Keep an out for tennis coach and sports aficionado, Judy Murray OBE, who is heading along to the raceday. The tennis star’s mum says, “So looking forward to spending New Year’s day at Musselburgh Races again.

“It’s always a great day out and the very best way to welcome 2020 with friends, family and a bit of healthy competition.”

Musselburgh Racecourse’s commercial director, Sarah Montgomery adds, “When the race bell chimes on the 1st January 2020, we’ll be heralding the start of a new decade and to celebrate.

“We’ve planned a New Year’s Day raceday like no other - and there’s something for all the family to enjoy. Showcasing all the top racing action plus live music, a New Year’s Day ceilidh and free entry for under 18s - not to mention a whole host of fantastic food and drinks and a DJ set from Funkwagen - Musselburgh Racecourse will be alight with an electric New Year’s Day party atmosphere.”

A warm welcome awaits and this year first footers can enjoy complimentary canapes on arrival. Free treats will include venison and blueberry chipolatas, Isle of Mull cheddar and foraged truffle donuts and Lochaber smoked cheese tartlets with damson plum.

Back by popular demand are the VIP Yurts, available for exclusive hire for parties of 12, with welcome fizz, gourmet burger and chips, private seated area next to the racetrack for all of the action as well as a wood burning stove to keep cosy.

And if racegoers need any more persuasion, there are return coach transfers available from Edinburgh and the Lothians to take racegoers to the Racecourse.

Advance purchase tickets are available (save £5 per adult), under 18s free with an adult, www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk