The annual Music Showcase Weekend at York Racecourse (Friday eve 22nd & Saturday 23rd July) will see Madness performing after racing on the Friday evening and Sugababes on the music stage for Saturday.

Seven races will precede both concerts, with high class Pattern Race action on both days. The Listed European Breeders’ Fund Lyric Stakes on Friday being followed by the Sky Bet York Stakes on Saturday. Each contest will offer record prize money of £60,000 and £125,000 respectively.

An unusual race begins the action on Saturday, as riders more often seen at Cheltenham and Aintree try their hand over the flying five furlongs of the Sky Bet Jump Jockeys Nunthorpe.

Given the recent warm weather, the track made an early announcement that jackets will not be required in County Stand, though a collared shirt and tie does remain the dress code.

Madness have been a popular part of the British music and festival scene since they first gigged back in 1979, the band will need little introduction to racegoers. Madness have had 15 singles reach the UK top ten, including "One Step Beyond", "Baggy Trousers", “My Girl and "It Must Be Love", including one UK number-one single "House of Fun". Their song "Our House" resonated with family life across the country and also became their biggest US hit. Along the way the band have performed at Glastonbury, Camp Bestival and their own Madstock Festivals, received the Ivor Novello Award and helped open the 2012 Olympics.

As a chart-topping band, Sugababes, have achieved an impressive six number one singles (think “Push the Button" or "About You Now”, with the Spice Girls being the only British girl group to have had more. Since forming in the late 90s and launching with the era-defining debut album "One Touch'" they’ve achieved multi-platinum success and numerous accolades.

Now back touring as their original line up of Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena and Siobhán Donaghy, their performances are highly regarded and perfect for a summers evening.

Those racegoers aged 5-17 to Stands Side, enjoy a special rate of just £10 (subject to limited availability).  Under 18s are FREE into Clocktower Enclosure. As well as free car parking, there are no booking fees.

Admission will be available to all areas on the gates, noting that arrival must be prior to the last race on each day. The gates open at 4pm/11.15am with the music scheduled to finish by 10.30pm/7.15pm.

The weather forecast means that the lawns, terrace and fresh air spaces can be enjoyed to the maximum benefit, as well as the reassurance that all Covid-19 protocols will be followed.

James Brennan, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship said, 
“Everyone at the course is really excited that these magical racing and music events are scheduled to return.  Bands that bring a smile to many faces, add in the spectacle of the racing itself and we hope it will prove a summer weekend to savour.”

Click here for our Music & Racing guide.