Brought to you by AmWager
The crowd captures the finish of Preakness 149. (Maribeth Kalinich/Past The Wire)
Historic Preakness 150 Celebrations To Feature Live Trackside Set By Grammy® Award-Winning T-Pain With Special Live Broadcast Performance By Grammy® Award-Winning Wyclef Jean
Preakness 150 Marks Milestone Running with $2 Million Purse, Infield Fan Zone Hosted by Ray Lewis and an Integrated Live Entertainment Format
David Joseph/Preakness 150
BALTIMORE, Md. – The Preakness Stakes, the iconic middle jewel of the Triple Crown, returns to Pimlico Race Course on Saturday, May 17, marking a monumental chapter in Thoroughbred racing featuring the world’s top horses and jockeys. Led by 1/ST, the company shaping the future of racing, entertainment and wagering, Preakness 150 will deliver a race day experience that honors tradition while introducing an exciting new format.
“The 150th Preakness Stakes is a milestone moment for Baltimore and in sports history. The Preakness holds a unique place as one of the longest and continuously held sporting events in the United States and 1/ST is proud to be part of that legacy. Preakness 150 is a celebration of racing, entertainment, culture and community, and is the kick off to a bright new era for Thoroughbred racing in Maryland,” said Belinda Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, 1/ST.
Preakness 150 welcomes the return of three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Wyclef Jean to Pimlico. A solo superstar and a founder and guiding member of the Fugees, Wyclef Jean will perform a multi-song live set, including one of his greatest hits for the national NBC broadcast. Fresh off viral sets at Coachella and Stagecoach, Preakness 150 celebrations will be capped off by GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, producer, songwriter, entrepreneur and global cultural icon T-Pain, immediately following the final race.
Designed for guests to experience the performances from their seat in the grandstand with views from select VIP hospitality areas and via live streaming in all hospitality areas, the new performance layout delivers an integrated and connected atmosphere for fans in a way that has never been done before at the Preakness. Departing from the traditional infield festival experience, the performance stage will be relocated trackside, positioned just north of the iconic cupola and beneath the LED board. This new stage and layout are designed to connect the racing action and live entertainment, creating a true value-add for ticket holders through a more immersive and elevated experience.
In addition to the $2 million purse, the 150th Preakness Stakes (G1) champion will be presented with the coveted Woodlawn Vase, crafted by Tiffany & Co. – recognized as the most valuable and continuously contested trophy in American sports. A commemorative, custom-designed ceremonial display on the cupola created by Tiffany & Co. will honor the Woodlawn Vase, the legacy of the Preakness, and its enduring place in North American sports culture. American announcer Bruce Buffer will call “Riders Up!” for the 150th Preakness Stakes, alerting jockeys to mount their horses for the exciting race.
Anticipated to be a sell-out highlight for the 150th anniversary, the Infield Fan Zone, hosted by NFL Hall-of-Famer Ray Lewis, is a new 21+ immersive activation with unlimited beer and wine, live music and entertainment, on-site wagering stations and a food village featuring local concessions and sponsor showcases. Powered by Element Electronics, the covered space accommodates up to 3,000 guests and will include 60 screens streaming all the racing and musical action live throughout the day.
Preakness 150 will continue to shine a spotlight on Baltimore’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene. The AfroPreak Lounge, hosted by Carmelo Anthony, returns for the fourth year with an expanded footprint, blending Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latino music, food and style into a dynamic infield experience. A curated lineup of local food and beverage vendors – including Peruvian Bros, Brookside Market, Box Hill and Hoodfella will serve signature dishes across all hospitality areas. Premium hospitality will be led by Maryland’s Ridgewells Catering.
Aston Martin is proud to be the presenting partner of the 1/ST Chalet at Preakness 150. Aston Martin will showcase two of its iconic vehicles at Pimlico, including one displayed in the 1/ST Chalet Garden. 1/ST Chalet guests will enjoy an exclusive Aston Martin-inspired cocktail and a chef-curated menu by Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Trabocchi, who is a partner of Aston Martin Washington D.C.
“I’m honored to be part of the 150th anniversary of the Preakness Stakes,” said Chef Fabio Trabocchi. “The DC-Baltimore region has played such an important role in my culinary career, and it’s a privilege to contribute to an event with such deep meaning and history for the community.”
On Friday, May 16, the 101st running of the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes marks more than a century of excellence in Thoroughbred racing and its deep ties to the Park Heights community. During the event, 1/ST will recognize the recipient of this year’s George E. Mitchell Fellowship Grant and will welcome representatives from Park Heights Renaissance, the grant program’s host organization, as well as members of the Mitchell family, honoring local leadership and impact. The winning piece from the fourth annual The Art of Racing competition, “Winning Colors” by Steve Luhn, will be displayed during Preakness weekend and on limited-edition merchandise available on-site and online. Proceeds will benefit Park Heights Renaissance, whose mission is to support the implementation of the Park Heights Master Plan through a holistic approach to community development, helping create a thriving and sustainable future for the neighborhood.
The Maryland Jockey Club and 1/ST have brought back Preak Weeks for its third year, an initiative that launched April 28 and runs through May 16. In collaboration with Heidi Klotzman of HeidnSeek Entertainment, the initiative shines a spotlight on Baltimore-based businesses in the lead up to the legendary Preakness Stakes. The public is encouraged to visit the 19 participating establishments – ranging from restaurants and cafes to boutiques, services and community organizations – throughout the three-week promotion, both as a show of support to Baltimore-based businesses and for a chance to win or purchase tickets through designated QR codes, with a portion of proceeds going back to the business.
Preakness 150 is made possible through the support of a dynamic group of community, hospitality and brand partners, including Diageo, Aston Martin, Guinness Open Gate Brewery, Moët Hennessy, White Claw, OLD BAY®, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Mountain Dew, American Cruise Lines, Verizon, Visit Baltimore, AT&T, Curaleaf, E-Z-GO and the Maryland Lottery. Signature cocktails will be available throughout Pimlico – including the iconic Black-Eyed Susan, made with Bulleit Bourbon and Ketel One Vodka – as well as premium selections from Don Julio 1942, Veuve Clicquot, Casamigos Tequila,Crown Royal, Chandon Garden Spritz and more. Brand activations will be featured across the venue, offering tastings, experiences and exclusive offerings.
In collaboration with Guinness Open Gate Brewery, the event will debut Preakness 150 Lager, a limited-edition rice lager available on draft and in cans at Pimlico, select Baltimore locations and the brewery throughout race weekend.
Preakness 150 will set the stage for the future of Thoroughbred racing in Baltimore. Following this year’s event, the Maryland Stadium Authority and Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) will begin redevelopment of Pimlico Race Course into a modern, year-round, world-class facility that honors the history and community roots of the venue.
Tickets for Preakness 150 are available now at www.preakness.com/tickets, ranging from $96 for general admission to $3,100 for premium hospitality experiences. Individual Infield Fan Zone passes and VIP tables are also on sale.
Commemorative Preakness 150 merchandise, including hats, sweatshirts, t-shirts, totes, mugs and more, will be available for purchase on-site during race weekend and online at the official Preakness Store.
Broadcast coverage begins Friday, May 16, with the 101st running of the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes airing on Peacock from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with full-day coverage available on FanDuel TV and HIPICA.
On Saturday, May 17, fans can tune in for full-day coverage of Preakness 150 on FanDuel TV and HIPICA, with national coverage airing from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Peacock and CNBC, followed by the main event broadcast on NBC from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Telemundo broadcast details will be announced.
Follow the action @PreaknessStakes and join the celebration using #Preakness150.
Other Preakness Week Events
Preakness Festivities kick off at the Maryland Horse Library and Education Center and continue at Pimlico and a few other locations right up to Preakness Day
Donnie Miller and Deputed Testamony
May 8, 7:00 PM
The Maryland Horse Library and Education Center
FREE
Bourbon & Bow Ties
May 8, 6-9 PM
SOLD OUT
B&0 Railroad Museum, 901 W Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD
QG Community Charities’ presents Bourbon & Bowties, Maryland’s premier annual fundraiser featuring local and nationally recognized spirits, live charity auction, top-rated bourbon, beer, wine and foods.
Learn how you can still contribute here: https://www.bourbonbowtiesbaltimore.org/.
Book Sale and Art Mart
Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, 10AM – 5PM
The Maryland Horse Library and Education Center
A special screening of the Eclipse Award-winning film, The Preakness: An American Classic
Friday, May 9, 6:30 PM
The Maryland Horse Library and Education Center
FREE
Outdoor Movie Night: Secretariat
Friday, May 9, 6:00PM – 11:00PM
Get into the racing spirit with a free, outdoor screening of Secretariat in Baltimore Peninsula. This family-friendly evening of cinema under the stars will feature local food trucks and music before the 8pm showtime.
FREE RSVP at Eventbrite.
The 4th Annual George “Spider” Anderson Music and Arts Festival
Saturday, May 10, 1:00PM – 6:00PM
Honoring George “Spider” Anderson, the first African-American jockey to win the Preakness Stakes, this free family-friendly festival will feature horseback riding, live entertainment and games. In association with Park Heights Renaissance.
See all details here: https://spiderandersonfest.com/.
FREE
NTL Pimlico Cup with Lamar Jackson
Saturday, May 10
Pimlico
Join Lamar Jackson, the two-time NFL MVP — owner of Baltimore’s newest home team, the National Thoroughbred League’s Maryland Colts — for a day of excitement at the NTL Pimlico Cup on Saturday, May 10 at Pimlico Race Course.
Tickets
Maryland Horse Farm Tour
Sunday, May 11, 11:00AM – 3:00PM
A fun, free day for families to connect with horses in the places where Maryland’s racehorses are grown—in celebration of Maryland’s rich equine history.
Select farms across Maryland. FREE. RSVP Here: https://marylandhorse.com/event/maryland-horse-farm-tour/
“Mother’s Day at the Races”
Sunday, May 11, 11:00AM – 3:00PM
Pimlico
At this ticketed event presented by the Maryland Jockey Club, guests can enjoy live thoroughbred racing and a full-service brunch.
Get tickets to secure your spot here: https://www.pimlico.com/mothersday/.
Governor’s Open Golf Tournament
Monday, May 12, 7:45AM – 4:00PM
This ticketed premier golf event will bring together business leaders, community advocates and top athletes for a day of friendly competition and networking.
To learn more, contact inquiry@preaknessfestival.com.
ABR Pre-Preakness Party
Wednesday, May 14, 6PM
Mt. Washington Tavern
Proceeds from the ABR Pre-Preakness Party will benefit Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and The Jockey Club Safety Net Foundation. Registration is also open for the correlating silent auction that benefits Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and occurs during the live event. The event will also strive to raise awareness for a continued event partner, the Ed Brown Society, which celebrates the rich history of African Americans in the equine industry and creates opportunities for young people of color to gain industry exposure. New to the Pre-Preakness Party this year will be a meet and greet with jockeys in support of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF).
Buy Tickets
Club Quarantine 5 Live with DJ D-Nice
Wednesday May 14, Doors: 7PM, Show: 8PM
Pier 6 Pavillion, Baltimore
The Magic of Maryland Music Celebration is a ticketed waterfront concert with DJ D-nice, Club Quarantine 5 Live, the BSO alongside Conductor Igmar Thomas and friends including Ari Lennox, Jadakiss, Deborah Cox, Chanté Moore, Too $hort, Lil’ Mo, Raheem DeVaughn, 803Fresh, DJ Quicksilva, DJ Class, Cordae, 2 Hyped Brothers & A Dog with Frank Ski, Michael Phillips, Fred Yonnet, Father MC, and Kenny Burns!
Buy Tickets Now
Alibi Breakfast
Thursday, May 15, 9:00AM – 11:30AM
At the historic Pimlico Race Course in the Terrace Dining Room and Hall of Fame Dining Room
Dating back to the 1930s, The Alibi Breakfast is where champions are celebrated, rivalries are renewed, and the stage is set for an unforgettable Preakness weekend. Join horsemen, media, and racing enthusiasts for the 150th Preakness Stakes Alibi Breakfast. Get your tickets now!
Sunrise Tours
Tuesday, May 13-Friday, May 16
Pimlico
Enjoy a free, guided 20-minute walking tour offering an insider look into Thoroughbred racing. Tours run continuously from 6–9 a.m., Tuesday 5/13 to Friday 5/16, with last registration at 8:45 a.m. (Friday tours are the most popular—come earlier in the week if possible)
Tour Highlights:
- Watch Preakness contenders during morning workouts.
- Meet a jockey and learn about their gear and training.
- Visit the Starting Gate, Stakes Barn, and Paddock.
- Talk with trainers, owners, and special guests (e.g., politicians, blacksmiths).
- See the Baltimore Police Mounted Unit.
- Visit the Winners Circle and meet owners of retired racehorses.
Pimlico Historical Tours
Saturday, May 10 at 2:00PM
Sunday, May 11 at 10:00AM
Join an expert-guided walking tour celebrating the legacy of the nation’s second-oldest racetrack as it nears the 150th Preakness Stakes and prepares for an exciting rebranding.
What You’ll See:
- Historic Bas Relief commemorating the “Great Race”
- Raoul Middleman murals
- Press box, museum, and grandstand
- Outdoor highlights: Derby Winner’s stall, Winner’s Circle, and cupola
Tour ends with a Champagne toast in a keepsake 150th Preakness glass
Click for tickets Price: $40 per person
