Pete Murray to headline spectacular Carnival of Cups return to Wagga

13 August 2026

Australian music icon Pete Murray will headline a massive night of racing, entertainment and family fun when the Harness Racing NSW Carnival of Cups returns to Wagga on Friday, November 6.

One of Australia's most successful singer-songwriters, Murray will take centre stage following the racing action, supported by chart-topping rock favourites Taxiride and Australian Idol finalist Kalani Artis.

The local flavour will also be on full display, with Wagga favourite Nathan Lamont returning to the Carnival of Cups stage, while talented teenage band Sundazed will kick off the entertainment and warm up the crowd.

Best of all, entry is free, with patrons simply required to register for tickets online before the event.

Harness Racing NSW has also arranged free bus services from the Wagga CBD to make it even easier for racegoers and music fans to enjoy the festivities.

For those wanting to elevate their evening, premium hospitality will again be available in the popular Carnival Crib, offering an exclusive race day experience.

Away from the stage, the on-track action promises to be just as exciting.

The meeting will be headlined by the $100,000 The Bidgee, the opening leg of the 2026-27 Carnival of Cups series, with valuable Bonus Points Series points on offer as connections begin their quest for the $100,000 owners' bonus pool.

The meeting will also showcase the Riverina Final of the TAB Regional Championships, ensuring a night of elite harness racing featuring some of the region's best pacers.

Harness Racing NSW Chief Executive Peter Buckman said Wagga had quickly become one of the signature stops on the Carnival of Cups calendar.

"The Carnival of Cups is all about bringing world-class entertainment and top-class harness racing together, and this year's Wagga event is shaping as one of our biggest yet," Mr Buckman said.

"Pete Murray is one of Australia's most respected performers and, alongside Taxiride, Kalani Artis, Nathan Lamont and Sundazed, we've assembled a fantastic line-up that has something for everyone.

"When you combine that entertainment with feature racing, free family activities, free buses and free entry, it makes for a great night out for the entire community.

"While tickets are free, registrations are essential, so we'd encourage everyone to jump online and reserve their place. We also expect the Carnival Crib hospitality packages to be popular again for those wanting to enjoy a premium experience."

The Carnival of Cups has become one of regional New South Wales' premier entertainment events, combining elite harness racing, live music, food, family activities and community celebration.

Free tickets are available now.

To register, explore hospitality options and find out more, visit www.carnivalofcups.com.au.