The home of racing in Chester has announced that Roman Day is making a welcome return to its historic grounds this year.
The spring event at Chester Racecourse is famous for combining first-class racing with Roman history and fun for families with children.
Roman Day will run at Chester Races on Saturday, May 30. The racecourse is simple to find in the centre of the city on New Crane Street, and gates will open at 11.30 am.
The 2026 edition of Roman Day promises plenty for young racegoers to enjoy. Themed activities include Gladiator Bootcamps, Roman Stunt Shows and archery displays featuring authentically uniformed legionaries, the interactive Camp Curiosity Outdoor Learning Camp, Fancy Entertainment’s Roman crafts and much more. The venerable racecourse is also joining forces with the Chester Heritage Festival to present “Roman Artefacts and Activities”.
Not only do children enjoy free access to the racecourse on the day, but all activities planned are inclusive.
Adults attending on the day have also been considered. A live DJ will be playing feel-good hits throughout the event, and there will be an abundance of track action to take in. The first race is at 1.30 pm, and the last race will kick off at 5.02 pm.
First established in 2019, the Roman Day fixture at Chester Races has grown into a popular community event for the city that attracts racing fans with families from surrounding towns and further afield. Last year, more than 18,000 racegoers joined the event.