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This May, race lovers will flock to Pimlico for the annual running of the Triple Crown’s second jewel: Preakness. While that day is full of fillies, flowered hats, and fun, this year Preakness is more than a race—it’s a week-long celebration.
May 10-17 the area will play host to a wide array of events. Whether you’re a horse lover, a music fan, a golfer—even an art aficionado—there’s a Preakness Festival event for you. Highlights of the week include a star-studded concert, a family-friendly festival in Park Heights, fundraisers, and more both in Baltimore and around the state. Events can be found on the website, preaknessfestival.com. New events are being added, so checking back is the best way to ensure you’re in-the-know on everything related to the Preakness and the week of celebration leading up to the main event.
“For this to be Maryland’s decade, it must be Baltimore’s time—and the inaugural Preakness Festival is one of the ways we make it happen,” says Gov. Wes Moore. “Preakness is not just about a race—it’s about believing in Baltimore again. And this year, we’re investing in winners on and off the racetrack.”
The Preakness Festival will feature a mix of free and ticketed events leading up to the Preakness Stakes, showcasing Maryland’s diverse communities, rich heritage, and small businesses. Here’s just a sample of the lineup:
Saturday, May 10: In Association with Park Heights Renaissance, The 4th Annual George “Spider” Anderson Music and Arts Festival (Park Heights, Baltimore). 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.
Sunday, May 11: Maryland Horse Farm Tour (select farms across Maryland). 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.
Monday, May 12: Governor’s Open Golf Tournament (Baltimore Country Club, Timonium). This ticketed premier golf event will bring together business leaders, community advocates, and top athletes for a day of friendly competition and networking.
Wednesday, May 14: Magic of Maryland Music Celebration (Pier Six Pavilion, Baltimore Inner Harbor). A ticketed waterfront concert with headliner Club Quarantine 5 featuring D-Nice & Friends alongside the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra with conductor Igmar Thomas.
In addition to its signature events, the Preakness Festival will also feature ancillary experiences, connecting Maryland residents and visitors alike to the state’s deep-rooted equine history. Among these is a Maryland Art Place (MAP) exhibition celebrating Maryland’s historic horse culture and the 150th anniversary of the Preakness Stakes. MAP will feature large-scale artworks at this free event in Baltimore.
And for a unique twist on the traditional Mother’s Day brunch, the Maryland Jockey Club will present “Mother’s Day at the Races” on Sunday, May 11 at Pimlico Race Course. At this ticketed event, guests can enjoy live thoroughbred racing alongside their mimosas and eggs benedict.
“The Preakness Festival is not just about honoring a storied tradition, it’s about building an inclusive future,”said Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore. “Featuring a series of events taking place across our great state, this festival is an invitation for all Marylanders to take part in something truly special. Together, we will create a legacy of celebration, opportunity, and economic impact that extends far beyond race day.”
Don’t miss out on everything that makes Baltimore and Preakness truly special. Get tickets and information at preaknessfestival.com.