Despite wet weather, Ovens Ford Melbourne Cup Day at the Wangaratta Turf Club on Tuesday drew a vibrant crowd of more than 1200 racegoers, proving that even grey skies can’t dampen the spirit of Cup Day.

Wangaratta Turf Club chief executive officer, Emma Merlo, said the crowd made the most of the day despite the weather.

"Everyone's still dressing up, they probably got a little wet, but they're all just having fun and getting into the cup day spirit," she said.

“Even though it’s cold, people are having a great time, and that’s what matters."

Ms Merlo said her favourite part about Melbourne Cup Day is bringing everyone together.

"People see friends they may not have seen for ages and just have a really good time no matter what the weather's doing," she said.

"And it's so loud when everyone cheers for their horse, it's great to be able to facilitate that."

Ms Merlo said the day had a family-friendly atmosphere, with activities and the 'Kids Club'.

“It’s not just about adults drinking and betting, it’s about bringing everyone together, no matter their age,” she said.

The day featured a variety of experiences, from the sold-out Oaks Room luncheon to the lively Secret Garden Marquee, complete with cocktails and canapés.

Doug Oldmeadow came with a crew of around 60 fellow Eldorado residents, taking up at least two tables on the Grand Oaks Room, next to Brisbourne Racing who are also based in Eldorado with a 200 acre training and spelling farm.

Doug said this year they had to upgrade from a maxi taxi to a Fallons bus.

“There’s more of us this year, so the trend is going in the right direction,” he said.

“It’s great to get out for the day and enjoy the races.

“Our small town is very well represented.”

Wangaratta local Jaala Van De Duim was dressed to impress alongside the crew from Old Faithfulls Brew Bar.

Jaala said for the past two years they have been taking advantage of the public holiday and making a day of it together.

“I just love the fashion and being able to come out with our work friends and enjoy a day out where we're not working.

“The social side is so gorgeous, plus the horses.”

Locals and visitors alike embraced the festive spirit of Melbourne Cup Day, including Ros McCabe who travelled down from Canberra for the event.

“Our family is having a marvellous time as the races,” she said.

“This is our first time, but we’ll definitely be back.

“The atmosphere has been great; people have been friendly and helping us with our bets”

Punters added to the electric atmosphere, they studied form guides and placed bets, undeterred by the drizzle and driven by the thrill of race day.

Wangaratta local Nick Dellicastelli said he placed over 200 bets on the cup, covering all of his bases.

“I have been betting a lot but it's a bit of a tradition for Cup Day," he said.

"I've been feeling lucky, I had a win after putting $40 on my favourite so I'm back up after not doing so well in some earlier races.

“I'm waiting to see what happens with the Cup, but we’ve made the most of the day.”

On the track racegoers were treated to spirited racing on the seven-card event, with many locally owned, trained and ridden horses garnering local support - and a couple tasting success.

Further story in sport.