Celebrate the 13th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas presented by Pacifico and emceed by Tommy McFly. The fun-filled and free event features the iconic Chihuahua races, a Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, and a giant inflatable Chihuahua for photo opportunities. Stop by the Tito's Chihuahua Lounge on Transit Pier for a cocktail made with Vodka for Dog People.

The highlight of the afternoon, the races feature over 150 Chihuahuas racing in groups of eight on a sixty foot racetrack. All the action is captured on a huge video screen and the winners take home pet-friendly gifts, prizes, and more! All race proceeds benefit Rural Dog Rescue – a non-profit organization dedicated to pulling dogs from high-kill rural shelters.

District Pier

2:00-5:00pm — Pacifico Beer Garden, DJ Harry Hotter, and a giant inflatable Chihuahua for photo opportunities on District Pier.

2:00pm — Chihuahua races begin, and continue throughout the event.

2:30pm — Adoptable Pet Parade & Rescue Race with Rural Dog Rescue.

3:15pm — Dog Costume Contest (All breeds welcome).

4:00pm — Cinco Says Challenge.

4:30pm — Check Presentation and Finals.

Transit Pier

1:00-1:45pm — Racer Check-In on Transit Pier.

2:00-5:00pm — Tito's Chihuahua Lounge and Pacifico Party Zone with drinks and additional big-screen race viewing, dog tag making, a caricature artist, pools for dogs, and more.

Do spectators need to register or get a ticket?
Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf is FREE for spectators; no tickets are needed. Gather around the race track or watch the excitement on the big screen. Food and drinks are available for purchase at the designated event bar. Drinks are also available for purchase at all Wharf bars and restaurants. You must be 21+ to consume alcohol. 

Paws & Paddles - Bring your pup for a paddle at the Wharf Boathouse on May 3 and treat them to a little swag: the first 50 dogs to hop in a kayak or canoe score a free Wharf Boathouse branded bandana. Instant style upgrade. Extreme tail wags guaranteed.

How can my Chihuahua participate in the races?
Online registration for the Running of the Chihuahuas has ended. We will accept walk ups on a first come, first served basis on race day and/or you can join the waitlist and we will notify you if a spot becomes available. All race entry fees are donated to Rural Dog Rescue. 

Join the waitlist on Eventbrite here.

What type of dogs are allowed to race?
Only Chihuahuas may participate in the races, but all dogs can take part in the excitement of the day during the free all-breed dog costume contest! If you don’t have a dog yet, keep an eye out for your forever friend during the Adoptable Dog Parade that takes place between the Chihuahua races.

How do I participate in the all-breed dog costume contest?
The all-breed dog costume contest takes place around 3:15pm on the main racetrack. There is no need to sign up in advance, just bring your costumed dog (on a leash, please) to the giant inflatable Chihuahua at the top of District Pier when the emcee announces it's time for the costume contest.

Is this event pet-friendly?
Pets are allowed in outdoor spaces throughout The Wharf. The Wharf will provide water for pets to drink. However, we do expect large crowds during the event, and outdoor areas may be hot or cold, so please plan ahead for your pet's comfort and safety. Please plan to keep your pet leashed throughout the event (except the Chihuahuas, when they're racing). The recommended pet relief area is Benjamin Banneker Park near 9th and Maine Ave SW.

Are there any drink specials?
Restaurants at The Wharf have crafted specialty cocktails named after an adoptable dog from Rural Dog Rescue to help raise awareness and find the dogs a home. Each cocktail is made with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Vodka for Dog People. Order a cocktail with Tito's from participating restaurants and support dog adoption: Boardwalk Arcade & Bar, Canopy Central, Cantina Bambina, Easy Company, Kirwan's on the Wharf, Makers Union, Pearl Street Warehouse, Pink Tiger, Union Stage, Whiskey Charlie, Whitlow's at The Wharf, and ZOOZ.

Will there be fireworks?
Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf does not feature fireworks. View The Wharf Events Calendar to see which upcoming Wharf events feature fireworks.

What is the best way to get to The Wharf?
Plan for lots of vehicular traffic and limited parking on Saturday. Instead of driving, ride the Metro to Waterfront Station and walk one block to The Wharf, or ride Metro to L’Enfant Plaza and connect to The Wharf on the free Southwest Shuttle. Or consider taking Bikeshare.

If you can’t avoid driving, The Wharf has three underground parking garages that are open around the clock. Check our garages' capacity before you arrive. Or plan to utilize one of the nearby off-site parking garages (view PDF map), including Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW), L'Enfant East Parking Garage (840 D St SW), or the 1100 4th St SW Garage.

What happens if it rains?
As a fully outdoor event, we will provide any necessary rescheduling updates here on our website and our social media.

Where are the public bathrooms at The Wharf?
Public restrooms are located throughout The Wharf at the Fish Market, Transit Pier, 800 Water Street, in the Oculus, and at The Terrace. View the public restrooms on the Event Map.

Can I bring chairs and coolers?
Chairs and coolers are not permitted at The Wharf at any time. Learn more about The Wharf’s Code of Conduct.

Can I drink alcohol outdoors?
In the District of Columbia, it is against the law to consume alcohol in public, including in the streets, parks, and piers at The Wharf. At The Wharf, you may only consume alcohol inside restaurants, within restaurants' licensed patio areas, or within the licensed event footprint on District Pier. No outside alcohol is permitted.