Baltimore, Md. – The 150th Preakness Stakes, set for May 17, 2025, at Pimlico Race Course, will mark a historic milestone with a $2 million purse, trackside performances by Grammy Award-winning artists T-Pain and Wyclef Jean, and an Infield Fan Zone hosted by NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis. Organized by 1/ST, the event introduces a new format blending racing, entertainment, and Baltimore’s cultural scene, departing from the traditional infield festival. The celebration, featuring top horses and jockeys, honors the middle jewel of the Triple Crown’s legacy while launching a new era for Maryland racing.
T-Pain, following viral Coachella and Stagecoach performances, will close the day with a live set after the final race, while Wyclef Jean, a Fugees co-founder, will perform a multi-song set, including a hit for NBC’s national broadcast. The stage, relocated trackside near the cupola, allows grandstand and VIP guests to view performances alongside races, with streaming in hospitality areas. “The 150th Preakness Stakes is a milestone moment for Baltimore and in sports history,” said Belinda Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, 1/ST. “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.”
The $2 million Preakness Stakes will award the Woodlawn Vase, crafted by Tiffany & Co., the most valuable trophy in U.S. sports. A Tiffany & Co. cupola display will honor the vase’s legacy, and announcer Bruce Buffer will call “Riders Up!” The Infield Fan Zone, a 21+ area for 3,000 guests, offers unlimited beer and wine, live music, wagering, and local food from vendors like Peruvian Bros and Hoodfella, with 60 screens powered by Element Electronics.
Baltimore’s culture shines through the AfroPreak Lounge, hosted by Carmelo Anthony, featuring Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latino music and food. Premium hospitality, led by Ridgewells Catering, includes the Aston Martin-presented 1/ST Chalet with a menu by Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Trabocchi. “I’m honored to be part of the 150th anniversary of the Preakness Stakes,” Trabocchi said. “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 May 16, the 101st George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes will honor Park Heights with a fellowship grant and display “Winning Colors” by Steve Luhn from The Art of Racing competition, benefiting Park Heights Renaissance. Preak Weeks, from April 28 to May 16, promotes 19 Baltimore businesses, offering ticket giveaways. A Preakness 150 Lager, created with Guinness Open Gate Brewery, debuts at Pimlico.
Partners like Diageo, Aston Martin, and OLD BAY support the event, offering cocktails like the Black-Eyed Susan and brand activations. Tickets, from $96 to $3,100, are available at www.preakness.com/tickets. Coverage airs on Peacock, CNBC, NBC, FanDuel TV, and HIPICA, with NBC broadcasting the main event from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on May 17. Post-event, Pimlico’s redevelopment into a modern facility begins, led by the Maryland Stadium Authority and Maryland Economic Development Corporation.
