Thousands flock to Melbourne Cup parade

Thousands of people have lined the streets of Melbourne on the eve of what's tipped to be one of the most open races in the event's 152 year history.

Chidlren dressed as jockeys during the Melbourne Cup parade in Melbourne. (AAP)

Racing revellers took to the streets today to celebrate the annual Melbourne Cup parade.

Trainers, jockeys and racing heavyweights travelled the course from Bourke St to Federation Square, in Melbourne's CBD, along with the iconic Cup itself.

New Zealand jockey Jim Cassidy told SBS he was looking forward to the day.

"It will be time to sing...you ready to go....yeah my word, we are goin' hard," he said.

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Veteran jockey and Melbourne Cup winner Craig Williams said he always stuck to a routine before race day.

"Homework when I get home, make sure I get to bed early, listen to some music," he said.

"Usually top 40. Maybe a bit of Michael Jackson."

In recent years, the Cup has become an international event with horses from as far as England, Ireland, Germany, France and Italy, and tomorrow will be no exception.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Richard Carolyn said the morning will be cool, but the sun will be shining by race time.

Watch the video report on YouTube below: