Go Slow Mindil Beach Picnic Races

A historic Darwin tradition returns to the sand — slower, cheekier and more Territory than ever.

More than 100 years ago, in 1918, Darwin gathered on Mindil Beach for horse races, community games and sunset celebrations to raise money for returned soldiers. In 2026 that spirit returns with the Go Slow Mindil Beach Picnic Races, a reimagining of one of the Territory’s earliest and quirkiest social traditions.

Set against the iconic backdrop of Mindil Beach, this is racing, but not as you know it.

Expect six delightfully unpredictable beach races featuring retired racehorses, ponies and big personalities, where fun comes first and taking things too seriously is strongly discouraged. With no whips, no prize money and a focus on equine welfare, Go Slow celebrates horses for personality over performance.

Spend the day soaking up the vibes with live entertainment, beach clubs, food trucks, picnic packs and fun on the sand, kicking off this tradition again in the Year of the Horse!

Part horse race. Part picnic. Part iconic event in the making.

Whether you come for the horses, the history or simply an excuse to gather with friends on the sand, Go Slow is a uniquely Top End experience that could only happen in Darwin.