Your D.C. weekend: Virginia Gold Cup, racing chihuahuas, and more derby fun

State of play: The Gold Cup steeplechase is on Saturday at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia.

• Day-long activities include horse racing, a hat contest, and a tailgating contest.
• Tickets start at $50.

Or head to The Wharf, for the 13th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas on Saturday from 2-5pm.

• Over 150 adorable chihuahuas in groups of eight will dash down a 60-foot turf racetrack.
• Winners get pet-friendly gifts and prizes. Proceeds go to Rural Dog Rescue.
• Plus: A Pacifico Beer Garden, DJ, dog costume contest and more. The event is emceed by Tommy McFly.

More events to check out:

🐎 Kentucky Derby viewing party at Jack Rose Dining Saloon. The rooftop and indoor saloon will be open for mint juleps, Kentucky bourbon, and Southern food for the race, from 4-8pm Saturday. Your best derby attire encouraged! Reservations here, or walk into the rooftop terrance.

🎸 Adams Morgan PorchFest is back with 100+ bands, 20+ stages on Saturday from 2-6pm. This year, a bike valet will be on site and there are official t-shirts for sale. Full map.

💐 Flower Mart returns to the National Cathedral on Saturday and Sunday, with plants and gifts for sale, festival noshes, and children's activities. Plus, you can ride a historic carousel. Free admission.

📚 The Capital Rare Book Fair brings antique book sellers to D.C. for visitors to check out books, prints and ephemera. Items are available for all budgets. The event begins with a preview night Friday, continuing Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are available online.