Historic Preakness 150 Celebrations: A Year of Milestone Events Featuring Live Performances

The Historic Preakness 150 Celebrations

The Preakness Stakes, known as the middle jewel of the illustrious Triple Crown, is set to make its grand return to Pimlico Race Course on Saturday, May 17. This year's event, the 150th Preakness, promises to be a monumental occasion that celebrates not only horse racing but also the vibrant culture and community of Baltimore.

A Momentous Celebration

As one of the longest consistently held sporting events in the United States, the Preakness has a storied history. This anniversary will honor past legacies while paving the way for a new era in thoroughbred racing. Belinda Stronach, Chairman and CEO of 1/ST, emphasized that this milestone is more than just a race; it's a celebration of racing, entertainment, culture, and community.

Star-Studded Performances

Expect electrifying live performances from renowned artists this year. Three-time GRAMMY Award-winner Wyclef Jean will be performing a special multi-song set, which is sure to be a highlight for attendees. Known for his ability to energize the crowd, Wyclef's performance will add an exciting dimension to the race day. After the last race, the celebrations will continue with the global cultural icon T-Pain taking the stage. T-Pain’s unique blend of hip-hop and R&B will be a fitting way to close out the day, especially after his popular appearances at major festival shows like Coachella and Stagecoach.

New Experiences for Fans

This year, the Preakness will introduce a revamped performance layout, allowing guests to experience the live music from their seats. Located trackside, just north of the iconic cupola, the new stage will enhance the connection between the racing action and live entertainment, creating a more immersive experience for attendees. This integrated performance format aims to elevate the celebration, making it unlike any previous Preakness events.

The Race of Champions

With a remarkable purse of $2 million, the 150th Preakness Stakes (G1) will see the top horses and jockeys compete for the coveted Woodlawn Vase, known as one of the most prestigious trophies in American sports. The vase, crafted by Tiffany & Co., will be showcased during the race in a special commemorative display.

Bruce Buffer, famed announcer recognized for his energetic call of “Let’s get ready to rumble!”, will signal the race's commencement with “Riders Up!”. The stakes are high this year as the event looks to sell out, particularly with the introduction of the Infield Fan Zone hosted by NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis. This area will create an engaging space for the 21+ audience, featuring unlimited beer and wine, live music, entertainment, and local food vendors.

Culinary and Cultural Highlights

Preakness 150 will also highlight Baltimore’s rich culinary scene, with a special focus on local food and beverage vendors. The return of the AfroPreak Lounge, hosted by NBA star Carmelo Anthony, will expand on last year's success, blending Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latino vibes into the event. All attendees can indulge in curated dishes from popular local vendors while sipping on premium cocktails.

Looking to the Future

The weekend will indeed set the stage for the future of thoroughbred racing in Baltimore. Following this year's celebrations, significant redevelopment plans for the Pimlico Race Course aim to transform it into a world-class facility. As part of the Preakness, an initiative called Preak Weeks has been launched, spotlighting local businesses leading up to the race.

Conclusion

The Preakness 150 celebrations are not just a special race; they are a tribute to Baltimore’s history, community, and culture. With top-tier entertainment, culinary experiences, and a dedication to the future of racing, this is an event that promises memories to last a lifetime. As fans prepare to gather and celebrate, this historic occasion will undoubtedly be part of Baltimore's legacy for years to come. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime event and get your tickets now!

For more information, visit Preakness official site.