The Melbourne Cup is a prestigious horse race held annually in Melbourne, Australia. It is often referred to as "the race that stops a nation" due to its popularity and significance. There are several synonyms used to describe this event, including "the Cup," "the Melbourne Cup Carnival," or simply "the Cup Carnival." Other common terms used are "the race that stops the nation," "the run for the roses," and "the premier horse-racing event in the southern hemisphere." No matter what it is called, the Melbourne Cup remains one of the most highly anticipated and celebrated sporting events in Australia and beyond.