Great Meadow Field Event Center

Great Meadow Field Events Center in The Plains is the site for a number of events, including the Virginia Wine Festival, July 4^th Celebration, Friday Night Twilight Polo, but perhaps its primary claim to fame is the Virginia Gold Cup Races, held every May on the first Saturday – same as the Kentucky Derby. Great Meadow runs the International Gold Cup on the third Saturday in October.

The Gold Cup Races have grown from the original community sporting event held on the edge of nearby Warrenton at the old Broadview Course, now the site of residential homes, to a huge event attracting 50,000 spectators. Gold Cup sponsor and patrons include major corporations and businesses as well as racing enthusiasts who love coming out for the Virginia version of England’s Derby Day, Gold Cup and Epsom Races.

Tailgates range from simple in the General Admission area to splendid themes al fresco and under tents on Members’ Hill and all the way around the scenic racecourse. Race calling veteran Will O’Keefe keeps fans informed about the action on the course, and the Gold Cup Races, as well as the International Gold Cup Races, offer a race card filled with action and excitement, beginning with the very popular pony races for budding steeplechase jockeys, and Jack Russell terrier races.