Horse Racing – Things to do in winter on the Côte D’Azur
The Hippodrome in Cagnes Sur Mer on the Côte D’Azur is the ideal day out for a family.
Entrance to the Hippodrome is free for under 18’s and just 4,50€ euros per adult.
“During the Holidays – kids are king!”
And this winter school holiday they have organised a very special winter themed kids exhibition!!
During the school holidays from the 24th of December until the 7th of January the Hippodrome in Cagnes-Sur-Mer are offering the public a chance to come and discover the magic kingdom of the of the Polar Bear, a presentation of the animals and nature of the far North. For 2 weeks this family exhibition will be constructed at the heart of the Hippodrome, on a podium decorated with all the colours of Christmas.
Children (and adults too) can take their photo with the giant bear. During this period you can also enter a tombola. The winning lots will pulled out and a prize giving will take place on Sunday the 7th of January. Other free activities for children will also be available including: pony rides, “velos sulkys” and bouncy castles.
vélos sulkys (an example photo)
On Sunday the 7th of January, on the occasion of the “Grande Journée de l’Obstacle” which is one of the key events of the winter season and a captivating horse jumping show, all Polar Bear’s friends including: Elsa and Anna from Frozen, Olaf the Snowman, Swen the Reindeer and many others, will perform parades and meet the public throughout the day.
“Grande Journée de l’Obstacle”
If you miss the winter school holiday events – dont worry! There is still the chance to experience a exciting Family Day out Horse Racing at the Hippodrome throughout the winter season.
Here is a brief overview of the day’s agenda:
The day starts with a visit to just steps away from the boxes where the stable lads are taking care of the champions.
As part of their pre-race preparation, the horses will be brought from the stables to the parade ring and led around by their grooms. This is to help them stay warm and focused and gives racegoers a chance to see the horses before they are saddled and to assess their fitness attitude.
Also known as the Paddock, this is a must for all racegoers to see the horses close-up before the race and to hopefully pick the winner!
Want to place a bet? The minimum bet is just a few euros and if you have never seen trotting it’s a must see! Make sure you check the official winners list when it goes up because sometimes the horse that passes the finish line first is not declared the winner. The rules can be strict and horses who break their trot can be disqualified. So will you pick that lucky winner? – Double check those betting slips!
There are panoramic restaurants where you can watch the racing and enjoy a meal. There are several types of dining options including: lunch “afterwork” tasters or dinner. There is also a cafeteria, snacks and a bar.
During the weekends the Hippodrome organises free activities and events for children: Pony rides, vélos sulkys – a carnival pony-drawn bike and bouncy castles.
At the hippodrome, young and old will discover and enjoy all things “Horsey”!
As a fun and educational distraction wooden toys and games will also be back at the Hippodrome every weekend in February as well as the 11th of March, marking the occasion of the “Grand Critérium de Vitesse” which translates to “the great test of speed”. This event is an international “trotting” race which is the highlight of the Riviera’s Winter Festival. It takes place in March and has a prize for the winner of at least €160 000.
Just a few facts about the Hippodrome:
- It’s located on the seafront, this exceptional place combines top class horse racing with panoramic views of the sea.
- 2nd biggest racecourse in France
- 6000 spectator seats
- 2000 parking places
- panoramic restaurants, 1snack-bar, 1 cafeteria, 1 bar
- children’s playground
- events during meetings (fireworks in summer)
- site for other events: shows, festivals, markets
- Entrance to the Hippodrome is free for under 18’s and just 4,50€ euros per adult.
Contact the Hippodrome:
Tel : 04 92 02 44 44
We would love to see your photos and hear your stories about your trip to the Hippodrome. Comment below, on our Facebook page or contact use via email