CHELTENHAM doesn’t need any sideshows and yet they have quite a few non-racing events planned for the Festival.

As part of the drive to make racing open and accessible to all, the Racing Realm Activation Zone presents an opportunity for everyone to learn more about jump racing. Virtual reality equi-cisers will enable racegoers to live out the dream of riding a Festival winner. The Activation Zone will also include an area dedicated to the invaluable work of the Cotswolds Riding for the Disabled Association as well as a fan photography area and the chance to win prizes in a Racing Around The World competition.

Each day starts with a preview show in which raceday presenters Aly Vance, Hayley Moore and Martin Kelly will be joined by racing personalities to preview the afternoon’s action.

Following the preview, soprano Laura Wright will be joined by an electric string duo from The Urban Soul Orchestra in the parade ring for a performance. There is also live musical entertainment both before and after racing on each day of the Festival. On the opening day a Retraining Of Racehorses parade will take place in the morning, showcasing retired racehorses who have gone on to enjoy a second career.

Wednesday is fashion day. The Style Awards will celebrate vintage and borrowed items as well as investment pieces that can be passed down through the generations.

The awards will run from 10.30am until 2.30pm in the Plaza in the Club and Tattersalls enclosure. To enter, racegoers will need to have their picture taken in the cube located in The Plaza. Prizes include a £4,000 necklace.

On Thursday the Tattersalls Cheltenham Festival Sale will take place after racing in the parade ring. Paddy Power will host an expert panel in The Centaur before racing.

On Gold Cup day Laura Wright will perform with Ultimate Event Dancers.