Washington, D.C. - May 04, 2006

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

May is here, and you know what that means: time to start horsing around.

GO
Virginia Gold Cup
What: Steeplechase race, tailgating, boutiques, public drunkenness.
Why: Slow and steady wins the race.
When: Sat. Gates open at 10 a.m.; first race at 1 p.m.
Where: 90 Main St., Warrenton, Va. See website for details and tickets.

DRINK
Mint Julep
What: In honor of the 132nd Kentucky Derby, muddle four sprigs of fresh mint, one teaspoon of sugar, and two teaspoons of water in a Collins glass or julep cup. Add crushed ice, pour in two and a half ounces of whiskey, garnish with a mint sprig.
Why: If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.
When: Cocktail hour.
Where: Right there.

SEE
Bal Masque
What: World premiere of Richard Greenberg’s new play about the morning after Capote’s Black and White Ball. Eat and drink with the actors after.
Why: Another way to wear silks.
When: Thurs., 7:30 p.m.
Where: Theater J, DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW, at Q St. Tickets at 800-494-8497.

BUY
Spring Shopping Night
What: Champagne and 25 percent off Phillip Lim, Nicholas K, Rozae Nichols, and John Varvatos. Why: You’re hot to trot.
When: Thurs., 4-8 p.m.
Where: Muléh, 1831 14th St. NW, b/t S & T Sts. (202-667-3440).

Flower Mart
What: Shop a festival full of boutiques, gourmet vendors, flowers, plants, and books.
Why: Say it with flowers.
When: Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts & Wisconsin Aves. NW (202 537-3185).