There will be no horses running at the Lightning Ridge Races this year but there will still be plenty of fun for free according to the Race Committee. 

Heavy rainfall in northern NSW and southern Queensland means the track is too wet for horses to race. 

Photo: Lightning Ridge Race Club

The Committee announced they will go ahead with the trackside traditions of the races on 19 April, including a well-stocked bar, food stalls, frilly fashions, TAB, jumping castle and live music. 

"People still want to catch up and have all that jazz," Race Committee Treasurer Angus Remond said. 

The big music act playing on the unusual race day is yet to be announced. 

The decision was met with support on social media. 

"I don't even go for the racing anyway, I go for the socialising. It's always a great day out," one user wrote.

Racegoers who already purchased their ticket can request a refund or donate the amount to the race club. 

"This allows us to pay our bills and secure future race days," the race club wrote on Facebook.

Membership payments are non-refundable.