Saturday March 16 will showcase the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with gates opening at 11am.

Racegoers can expect some hotly contested racing action with 32 horses nominated for the five scheduled races.

The event last year drew an estimated crowd of 500 people but MIRC president Mike Tulley hopes to crack that figure on the weekend.

"We already have 350 people who have booked tables and then we expect a few extra 100 people to just show up on the day," Mr Tulley said.

"The St Patricks Day Races is one of our biggest race meetings up alongside with Spring Cup and Isa Cup.

"It is always a big day and we are expecting this weekend to be no different.

"Racing now days is like a nightclub during the day, it is a great social scene for everyone to come together and enjoy themselves."

The St. Patrick's Day Races will also include themed fashions with a trend of greenery expected across all categories.

Food vendors, bookies, TAB facilities and open bar will also be available throughout the day.

Late entertainment will also be provided with DJ Glow set to keep the crowd entertained following the racing action.

The racing schedule will start at 2.20pm with the Steejo Press QTIS Maiden Plate 900M. 

Followed by the Cava Hydraulics Class B Handicap 900m at 3pm

The Trevor Morris Builders Ratings Band 0 - 65 Handicap 900m at 3:40pm

The Colonial Supermarket Class 2 Plate 1000m at 4.20pm

And the final race Book A Table St. Pats Race Open Plate 1000m at 5pm.

Ticket entry is $20 for non-members.

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