Three events not to miss in Roma
Roma lives for big steaks, big rigs, and best of all, big events. This year, do as the Romans do and flock to one of Outback Queensland’s big three celebrations.
Embrace country living at the Roma Show in May, get dressed in your winter(ish) best for the Roma Rugby Races in June, and arrive ready for the biggest party of all - the Roma Cup in November.
Find this centre of Outback Queensland life, 500 clicks west of Brisbane, accessible via the Warrego Highway or for those short on time, an hours’ flight from Brisbane with REX or QantasLink.
Ready to go? Here’s everything you need to know about Roma’s three unmissable annual events.
1. Roma Show, 6-7 May 2022
From the ute muster to fashion parades, show jumping and pig racing, there’s no shortage of things to see and do when the Roma Show rolls into town each May.
Since 1873, the agricultural show has been part of the fabric of the Roma community, celebrating everything wonderful about living in the country.
Over two days the Roma Show presents a packed schedule of competitions, demonstrations, displays, arts, crafts, entertainment, and amusement rides.
Crowds will descend on Bassett Park 6-7 May 2022 for the wood chop, snake displays and pet parade.
Teenagers and kids love hanging out at sideshow alley, while older crowds flock to the sheep dog trials and to admire displays of art, pottery and floristry.
Get hands on at the animal nursery, or sit back and appreciate the skill and talent of show jumping, which draws competitors from across Australia.
When tummies start to rumble, load up on classic show food like loaded spuds, hot dogs, waffles and crepes.
2. Roma Rugby Races, 25 June 2022
Leave it to the best minds in Roma to combine the “sport of kings” with the “game they play in heaven”.
That’s right, the Roma Turf Club and Roma Rugby Club will join forces on Saturday 25 June 2022 to take over Bassett Park for the annual hybrid celebration.
Picture chic race-day fashions combined with all the passion of a local rugby match, and you’re starting to get the Roma Rugby Races picture.
The annual event draws about 2,500 spectators from across Queensland for a memorable day out by the track.
Falling around the winter solstice, it’s cool enough for lads to don a suave suit, while ladies love the chance to dress up in the latest winter fashions, with a hotly contended fashions on the field competition.
Beyond races and rugby there’s plenty happening off the field too. Catch up with mates at the bar and make new friends while placing bets and enjoying a few cold beers.
Running from 11am until 6pm, this family-friendly day is a relaxed, casual social event on the Roma calendar. Tickets go on sale online one month ahead.
3. Roma Cup, 19 November 2022
Marking the end of the Spring Carnival, the Roma Cup is the place to be on Saturday 19 November2022.
As summer chases away the last wisps of spring, Outback Queensland plays host to thousands of punters who descend on the Roma Cup for the best race meet of the year.
With a $2 million prize pot on offer, this is a race that’s as much about celebrations as punting a seven race program.
Besides what’s happening on the track, there’s live music, fashions on the fields and a huge party atmosphere.
If you’re keen to go to the Cup this November, be sure to plan ahead. Accommodation in the Roma region books out well in advance as punters flock to town for the annual race day.
The Roma Cup is held at the Roma Turf Club at Bassett Park and tickets will be available online from October.