Horsing Around
Preakness Stakes Coming To Laurel Park
For generations, the thunder of hooves, the flash of colorful silks, and the elegance of Maryland’s horse racing culture have defined springtime excitement across the region. Now, for the first time in the storied history of the Preakness Stakes, the iconic race is coming to Laurel Park — and Prince George's County is transforming the moment into a countywide celebration of culture, entertainment, dining, and economic energy.
Running throughout May, “PGC Preakness” will offer residents and visitors an immersive series of experiences leading up to the 151st race day on May 16. Spearheaded by Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy, the initiative blends the glamour of thoroughbred racing with the county’s growing reputation as one of Maryland’s emerging entertainment and hospitality destinations.
The excitement reaches far beyond the racetrack itself. From waterfront celebrations at National Harbor to youth-centered equestrian experiences and upscale brunch gatherings, the month-long activation is designed to showcase the county’s vibrant lifestyle offerings and its deep historical ties to Maryland’s equestrian tradition.
One of the marquee experiences will be County Executive Braveboy’s inaugural “A Toast to Preakness” Brunch at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. Scheduled for May 9, the brunch is expected to bring together business executives, government leaders, tourism officials, and community stakeholders for an elegant networking affair infused with fashion, culture, and the celebratory spirit associated with Triple Crown season.
For families and aspiring riders, the Brian Westbrook Youth Equestrian Expo promises a more hands-on introduction to the horse industry. Organized in partnership with the Brian Westbrook Foundation, the event will expose local youth to equine education through workshops and immersive demonstrations that connect sports, agriculture, and career pathways.
Meanwhile, the county’s entertainment and culinary scene is expected to flourish through themed watch parties, race-day celebrations, and special dining experiences. Visitors gathering at National Harbor will be able to watch the race on large-scale screens overlooking the waterfront, while restaurants and nightlife venues prepare specialty menus and festive gatherings tied to Preakness weekend.
The activation also carries substantial tourism and economic significance. County leaders see the arrival of the Preakness at Laurel Park as a rare opportunity to introduce new audiences to Prince George’s County’s hospitality industry, local businesses, and expanding entertainment infrastructure. The event is expected to draw visitors from across Maryland and the broader Washington metropolitan region, potentially generating millions in local spending during the month-long celebration.
Beyond the glamour, however, the moment represents something deeper — a merging of Maryland tradition with Prince George’s County’s modern identity as a destination for culture, business, and recreation.
As the county prepares for the spectacle of race day, one thing is certain: this year’s Preakness season will not simply be about horses crossing a finish line. It will be about a county proudly stepping into the national spotlight.
