The horses are the main event at the Colonial Cup steeplechase races in Camden each fall.

But for my kids, the dogs always steal the show.

It's hard not to smile when you watch the terrier trials, as dogs zip through the course, flying over hurdles to the finish lines. The terrier events at the cup are open to Yorkies, Jack Russells, terrier mixes -- basically any terrier that can fit through a 9-inch hole. (But the feisty Jack Russells tend to dominate.)

The Colonial Cup, set for Nov. 19 at the Springdale Race Course, is a perfect family event, offering a chance to picnic, stroll, and watch some beautiful animals -- canines and equines.

The cup also offers a chance to visit the historic city of Camden, known to horse- and history-lovers around the country. South Carolina's oldest inland city offers a chance to tour more than 40 homes built before the Civil War or relive history at the site of the Battle of Camden,  one of the greatest defeats for the colonies during the Revolutionary War.