York Racecourse’s much anticipated Music Showcase Weekend returns on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th July 2025, offering two days of high quality racing followed by live performances from some of the UK’s best loved artists.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor, accompanied by special guest Natasha Bedingfield, will headline the stage on Friday evening after the day’s racing concludes. On Saturday, Ronan Keating will take the spotlight following one of York’s standout races of the season, the Group 2 Sky Bet York Stakes.
It’s a weekend that blends serious racing with standout live music, and continues to attract racegoers, music fans and day trippers from across the country.
Friday: Racing into the Evening
Friday’s meeting begins at 4:00pm, with the first race scheduled for 5:30pm. The highlight on the card is the Listed EBF Lyric Stakes, a respected fillies’ contest known for attracting high quality runners with future Group race potential.
Once the final race has concluded, the stage is set for an evening concert. Sophie Ellis-Bextor, known for her string of early-2000s pop-disco hits, will perform live from 8:45pm through to 10.30pm. She’ll be joined by Natasha Bedingfield, another UK chart favourite, with tracks like “Unwritten” and “These Words” sure to spark a nostalgic singalong.
Food and drink outlets will remain open across the racecourse throughout the evening, with plenty of space to enjoy the music whether you’re standing trackside or watching from the lawns.
Saturday: High Stakes and Headline Sounds
Saturday brings one of York’s biggest race days of the summer, with the Group 2 Sky Bet York Stakes offering a six-figure prize pot and attracting a competitive field of middle-distance runners.
Gates open at 11:15am with racing scheduled from 1:25pm to 5:00pm. Shortly after the final race, Ronan Keating will perform live on the main stage from 5:45pm to 7:30pm. The former Boyzone frontman is expected to draw a large crowd, with a setlist that includes solo hits and familiar classics.
It’s an ideal way to wrap up a day at the races, a mix of sport, entertainment and relaxed summer atmosphere in one of the UK’s most picturesque racing venues.
Choosing the Right Enclosure
York offers a wide range of enclosures and hospitality options, from casual grandstand access to private boxes and restaurant experiences. Whether you’re attending with friends, family, clients or as part of a larger group, the Music Showcase Weekend caters to a variety of preferences. You can find full details and booking options here.
Raceday Timings at a Glance
| Date | Raceday Name | Gates Open | First Race | Last Race | Headliner |
| Friday 25 July | EBF Lyric Stakes & Live Music | 16:00 | 17:30 | 20:23 | Sophie Ellis-Bextor + Natasha Bedingfield |
| Saturday 26 July | Sky Bet York Stakes & Ronan Keating | 11:15 | 13:25 | 17:00 | Ronan Keating |
Now firmly established as a highlight of the Yorkshire summer calendar, Music Showcase Weekend offers the perfect combination of flat racing and live music in a historic and accessible location.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, music lover, or simply looking for a summer weekend with something a little different, York Racecourse is the place to be this July.
Tickets are on sale now, and early booking is strongly recommended. Get in touch with Impulse Descisions today and make it one to remember.
