Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the D.C. Wharf for the 8th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas! Ándale, ándale!

Come for the races, and stay for the music, food, and beer garden! This annual Running of the Chihuahuas event will benefit Rural Dog Rescue and features over 100 chihuahuas all racing for the title of fastest dog in the city.

Event Details

WHEN: Saturday, May 4, 2019 | 1–5 p.m.
WHERE: D.C. Wharf | 760 Maine Avenue SW | Washington, D.C.
WHAT: D.C. Wharf Beer Garden, pet costume contest, and chihuahua races – basically, a day of family fun!

Chihuahua race, D..C. Wharf

Courtesy of The D.C. Wharf

Can I still enter my dog in the race?

Yes! The event is limited to half- and full-mix chihuahuas. Click here to register your dog and pay the $30 registration fee. Spots sell out, so sign up sooner rather than later.

There will also be a costume contest for ALL of the dogs present. No advance registration is required to participate, so get creative!

About the Organization

Rural Dog Rescue is a wonderful nonprofit organization that helps the "underdog" shelter dogs that may be overlooked. They do extensive community outreach and highlight animals for adoption on a weekly basis. All entry fees from this event will be donated to Rural Dog Rescue for their great work.

Check out their Facebook page for more information and to see some of their featured dogs that need good homes.

dog race

Courtesy of Bring Fido

Know Before You Go

  • Parking is located at the Maine Avenue parking garage. Use ParkMobile to easily pay for the time used or to reserve a spot beforehand.
  • You must be 21 to purchase and consume alcohol at the event.
  • The D.C. Wharf is home to some stellar restaurants – stay for dinner after the races!

For more information, including detailed directions and alternative parking tips, visit the D.C. Wharf event page.

Are you going to the Running of the Chihuahuas? What's your favorite part of the event? Let us know in the comments!