Toe-tapping jigs and reels will form the soundtrack to Oxford Stadium’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations in March with plans to deliver the city’s number one Irish-themed night out.
The Cowley venue will add a twist from the Emerald Isle to its greyhound racing fixture on Saturday, March 16, with live music, St Patrick’s Day themed fun and a free pint of Guinness available to those who book in advance.
Professional group The Black Velvet Band will perform classics including Fields of Athenry, Dirty Old Town, The Irish Rover, Town I Loved So Well and much more with two one-hour sets starting at 8pm.
The action on track will begin earlier with the first of 12 live greyhound races starting at 6.29pm, with doors opening at 5.30pm. And there’ll be an extra reason to be cheerful with the stadium gifting a free pint of Guinness on arrival to the first 150 people who book online.
It forms part of Oxford Stadium’s monthly Gala Race Nights in 2024 – which will provide a fun, family-friendly and cost-effective night out with a specific twist for local people.
Kevin Boothby, Oxford Stadium Managing Director, said: “Our St Patrick’s Day celebrations will be one of the highlights of our 2024 racing calendar, and we’re forecasting another bumper turnout.
“The Black Velvet Band will add an extra Irish twist to the night and ensure our racegoers can mark St Patrick’s Day weekend in style. We’ll also be bringing back Spin The Wheel, and provide all the accessories guests should need including hats and balloons to make it a memorable evening.
“Even better, the entertainment off-track will be supported by 12 quality greyhound races.
“There’ll be opportunities for racegoers to meet the stars of the sand and meet those who are recently retired from the sport to understand what fantastic pets they make when their racing careers end.”
Oxford Stadium’s St Patrick’s Day themed race night is the third Gala Race Night of the year. It follows a successful New Year’s Day launch, with an Oxford United themed race night booked for Saturday, February 3, featuring a host of club legends.
The evening will also feature heats of the prestigious TV Trophy – last held at Oxford Stadium in the 1990s.
Kevin added: “Oxford Stadium’s regeneration is built on bringing this historic venue back into the hands of the local community.
“Our Gala Race Nights coupled with the reintroduction of speedway and our ongoing partnership with Blackbird Leys ABC make this possible.
“We hope to see plenty of racegoers trackside on March 16, and remember to bring your dancing shoes!”
Tickets for Oxford Stadium’s St Patrick’s Day race night on Saturday, March 16, are available to purchase by clicking here. Doors open at 5.30pm with the first race due off at 6.29pm.
