Preakness Stakes

Preakness Stakes is held each year on the third Saturday of May. In 2026, this date falls on May 16. The race is one of the best-known events in American thoroughbred racing and is the second leg of the Triple Crown. It draws attention to elite three-year-old horses, racing tradition, Maryland sports culture, and the short, high-pressure stretch between the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. ¹

History of Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes was established at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore in 1873. It was named for Preakness, the horse that won the Dinner Party Stakes when Pimlico opened in 1870. The first Preakness Stakes was run on May 27, 1873, and was won by Survivor.

Today, the Preakness is understood as the middle race of the American Triple Crown, placed after the Kentucky Derby and before the Belmont Stakes. It is closely associated with Maryland, Pimlico, the Woodlawn Vase, black-eyed Susan imagery, and the drama of whether a Kentucky Derby winner can continue a Triple Crown bid.

Why is Preakness Stakes important?

The Preakness Stakes matters because it is a major test in American thoroughbred racing. Horses come into the race with little rest after the Kentucky Derby, and the result can either keep a Triple Crown campaign alive or reshape the season for three-year-old contenders.

The event also carries cultural value beyond the race itself. It is tied to Baltimore and Maryland history, brings national attention to horse racing, and gives casual fans a clear entry point into the traditions, strategy, and language of the sport.

• It is the second leg of the Triple Crown.
• The race has been part of American racing since 1873.
• Maryland’s racing history is strongly connected to the event.
• The short gap after the Kentucky Derby adds real pressure.
• Traditions around the trophy, flowers, and race day make it distinctive.

How to Celebrate Preakness Stakes

Watch the race live, follow the field in advance, or learn the basics of how odds, post positions, jockeys, and trainers affect the event. Fans often host small viewing gatherings, wear spring race-day outfits, or prepare Maryland-inspired food while keeping the focus on the horses and the race itself.

A more thoughtful way to enjoy the day is to learn about the history of the Triple Crown and the care, training, and planning behind a top-level thoroughbred race. The Preakness is also a good time to talk about responsible wagering, horse welfare, and the communities that support racing.

• Watch the race with family or friends.
• Read about the horses before post time.
• Learn the order of the Triple Crown races.
• Serve crab cakes or other Maryland-style food.
• Review the race results and winning connections afterward.

Preakness Stakes Dates

1. https://www.preakness.com/[↩]