Otago Racing general manager Rebecca Adlam refuses to believe it will rain for today's Melbourne Cup Day at Wingatui, despite the MetService's official forecast.
Occasional rain is expected from late morning, clearing this evening, but temperatures are expected to be in the early 20s.
Ms Adlam said the event was expected to draw a bigger crowd than previous years.
"People are excited to be coming out.
"We're hoping to have a good walk-up crowd.''
This year's event had received tremendous support from local businesses, she said.
"There are two tent villages and they've grown significantly this year.''
Gates open at 10.30am and there will be nine races throughout the day.
Racing was only part of the action, she said.
One of the most popular events was the Fashion in the Field competition.
This year's winner would be flown to Auckland to represent Otago on Derby Day at Ellerslie Racecourse, next February.
A Melbourne Cup Day event is also being held at Dunedin's Forbury Park Raceway, from noon until 6pm.
Gravity Events owner David Isaacs has set up a marquee in front of the grandstand where a line-up of DJs will perform; another line-up of acoustic bands will perform in the grandstand; and a large screen will display the Melbourne Cup races.
Police alcohol harm prevention officer Sergeant Ian Paulin, of Dunedin, said police would be present at both events, but he was not expecting any issues.
