About 30,000 people are expected to watch the Virginia Gold Cup races in The Plains on May 4. But there’s more to feast your eyes on than speedy horses and extravagant hats. There are 795 tailgate spots, and usually, about 10 of those enter the tailgate competition. Spaces often sell out, so reserve yours soon or start planning ahead for next year’s 100th anniversary. Wondering what it takes to win? Here are some tips from Gold Cup spokesperson and judge Marcia Massenberg.
Tailgates are judged on theme, food, and drink.
Lean into the theme, tying in the food and drinks.
Some examples? The Roaring ’20s, alma maters, and TV shows — there was a memorable Game of Thrones display, Massenberg says. Foxes often make an appearance.
Skip the store-bought foods.
The judges are far more impressed with homemade recipes. Hint: Mini biscuit sandwiches, crabcakes, and
cupcakes are popular.
Don’t hold back on the decorations.
“I’ve seen chandeliers, extravagant floral arrangements — it really is a sight. It’s beautiful,” Massenberg says.
Serve Champagne or creative cocktails with homemade mixers.
Just remember this is an all-day event, so go easy on the alcohol to be responsible.
What do you win?
This year, the first-place winner gets a case of wine from Rappahannock Cellars, an event sponsor. The second-place winner gets six bottles, and the third-place prize is three bottles.
Feature image by Anna Purdy
This story originally ran in our May issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
