The International Gold Cup

One of the country’s largest steeplechase and social event returns with the 82nd running of the International Gold Cup. The event will feature a fun day of parties and racing in beautiful Virginia horse country with six races. The first International Gold Cup was held in 1930 at Grasslands Downs, Tennessee where the King of Spain provided a spectacularly beautiful gold trophy. Although the race meet moved to Virginia in 1984, winners of the International Gold Cup are still awarded the same magnificent trophy. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. with pre-race entertainment and the first race gets underway at noon. The event also features pari-mutuel wagering. For those who love horses, it’s a wonderful day watching sleek thoroughbreds and jockeys in colorful silks fly around a course of challenging timber and brush jumps and a water obstacle. For those who are not interested in the horses, or the pari-mutuel wagering, the International Gold Cup is a fantastic social event with area celebrities and VIPs, lavish tailgates, tent parties, shopping and great people watching. The event draws approximately 45,000 attendees. General Admission parking passes are $50 each.  All of those entering the event grounds under General Admission and going to the north or south areas, must each have a wrist band. Wrist bands are $25 per person. No charge for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. Members Hill badges are $55 each (no charge for children 12 and under on Member’s Hill). To purchase a ticket, please click here.