How to Have a Lucky Preakness Weekend
May 14, 2024Time to place your bets: it’s almost Preakness, one of Baltimore’s biggest events of the year. Each year on the third Saturday in May, the Preakness Stakes are held at Pimlico Race Course here in Charm City.
Summer weekends at the track date back centuries. Pimlico has been open since 1870, making it the second oldest racetrack after Saratoga in upstate New York. Countless racing legends have made their way down the stretch here, from Seabiscuit to Secretariat. The tradition continues this year, and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
How to Spend Preakness Weekend 2024
We’ve gathered some ideas to improve your odds for a memorable Preakness weekend!
- At The Track
If you’d like to see the race in person, Pimlico is just a 20-minute drive from Liberty Harbor East. Friday is Black-Eyed Susan Day, then Preakness is Saturday. But, the stakes are just one part of a full event schedule. There will be fun activities throughout, including live performances from Jack Harlow and other trending artists. A general admission ticket to Preakness Live includes a spot at the final turn for racing and stage access for the performances.
- In The City
There will also be plenty of places in Baltimore where you can watch on the big screen. The Point in Fells will be playing the races all weekend long. Plus, you can sip on festive cocktails, including a specialty Preakness Cocktail and Sagamore Juleps. It’s a big deal here in Baltimore, so most sports bars are bound to have the race on; if you have a favorite, check their IG or call to ask before you make the trek.
- At Home
Or, skip the traffic, heat, and crowds by hosting a Preakness watch party at your apartment with your friends. The bartender of the group can make some Black Eyed Susans (here’s a great recipe) to share. This cocktail is a staple for Preakness, so don’t skip on the tradition. It’s a refreshing blend of pineapple, orange, and lime juice alongside vodka and St. Germain. You can even engage in some friendly competition with these DIY betting squares from Etsy.
Lucky at Liberty
We already consider ourselves winners for having such incredible residents. Wishing you all a fun Preakness weekend! Tag us in your race day photos and share your favorite Preakness weekend tips with us!