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IMPORTANT DATES & LOCATION
When and where will Preakness 151 take place?

Preakness 151 will be held at Laurel Park on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The Black-Eyed Susan Stakes will take place the day before on Friday, May 15, 2026.
Laurel Park is located at 198 Laurel Race Track Road, Laurel, Maryland 20725.

Why is Preakness moving to Laurel Park in 2026?

Pimlico Race Course is undergoing a major redevelopment and will be closed for construction. Laurel Park will serve as the temporary home for Preakness 151 while Pimlico is being rebuilt. The Preakness Stakes will return to Pimlico in 2027.

About the Preakness Stakes
What is The Preakness Stakes?

The Preakness Stakes is a historic American thoroughbred horse race held on the third Saturday in May each year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. It is known as the Middle Jewel (second race) of the famous Triple Crown series of horse racing which includes the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.

When is The Preakness Stakes?

The Preakness Stakes is celebrated annually on the third Saturday in May, two weeks after the first leg of the Triple Crown at the Kentucky Derby.

Who Won The Preakness Stakes?

Find out who won the most recent Preakness Stakes on our Results and Contenders page.

How Can I Bet on The Preakness Stakes?

You can wager on The Preakness Stakes via 1/ST BET, the official betting app of The Preakness Stakes!

TICKETS & PURCHASING
Where can I buy tickets?

Purchase tickets exclusively at Preakness.com, powered by our official ticketing partner, Ticketmaster. Tickets cannot be purchased in person—all sales are online only.

Are secondary ticket sites safe to use?

No. The only authorized ticket seller is Preakness.com. Other websites (including secondary marketplaces) are not affiliated with The Preakness, and purchasers assume all risks when buying from unauthorized sellers.

Will General Admission tickets be available?

Yes, limited General Admission tickets will be available for purchase.

Will there be Infield tickets?

No. Due to the venue configuration at Laurel Park, Infield tickets will not be available for Preakness 151.

What if I need to cancel or exchange my tickets?

All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges will be issued for any reason, including inclement weather, schedule changes, or personal circumstances.

TICKET OFFICE HOURS & SUPPORT
Can I get help at the venue before the event?

The Preakness Ticket Office will be open for Will Call and troubleshooting only on these dates:

• Thursday, May 14, 2026: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday, May 15, 2026 (Black-Eyed Susan Day): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday, May 16, 2026 (Preakness Day): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Prior to May 14, the Ticket Office will not be open for in-person service but will be available Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM via email at tix@marylandracing.com

MOBILE TICKETING
How do I access my tickets?

All tickets are mobile. Access your tickets by logging into your Maryland Jockey Club Account Manager at www.preakness.com/myaccount on your mobile phone's browser. Tickets will appear in your account in early April 2026, and you'll receive detailed instructions via email closer to the event.

Can I store multiple tickets on my phone?

Yes. You can swipe through all your tickets by tapping on the event under the "My Events" tab in the Account Manager.

What if I don't have a smartphone?

Contact our ticketing team at 877-206-8042 or tix@marylandracing.com to arrange alternative accommodations for guests without mobile devices.

What if I have technical problems on event day?

Visit the Preakness Ticket Office with a valid ID matching the name on your ticket, and our team will assist you.

VENUE ACCESS & POLICIES
Venue Access

• Black-Eyed Susan Day (Friday, May 15): 10:00 AM
• Preakness Day (Saturday, May 16): 9:00 AM

Can I move between different seating sections?

No. Only ticket holders with valid tickets for a specific section are permitted in that section. Each guest must remain in their ticketed area.

Can I leave and come back?

No. Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the facility. Your ticket can only be scanned once for entry.

Is this a rain or shine event?

Yes. The Preakness Stakes will be held rain or shine. This is an outdoor event, so please dress accordingly. No refunds will be issued due to weather. We recommend bringing rain gear (ponchos are allowed; umbrellas are not).

CHILDREN & FAMILIES
Can I bring my children?

Yes. Children are welcome and must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Children do not need a ticket if they sit on an adult's lap and do not occupy their own seat. If your child needs their own seat, you must purchase a full-price ticket.

BAG POLICY & PROHIBITED ITEMS
What can I bring into Laurel Park?

Only bags (purses and clear bags) measuring 18" x 18" or smaller are permitted. Backpacks and duffle bags are not allowed, regardless of size.

What items are prohibited?

The following items are NOT allowed on Black-Eyed Susan Day or Preakness Day:
• Outside food or beverages
• Glass containers
• Alcoholic beverages
• Drugs or weapons of any kind
• Backpacks and duffle bags
• Purses or bags larger than 18" x 18"
• Tents, umbrellas, balloons, balls, and Frisbees
• Chairs or folding chairs of any kind
• Drones, selfie sticks, and laser pointers
• Camelbacks or water bladders
• Hibachis, barbecues, or cooking equipment
• Ladders, scaffolding, or raised viewing platforms
• Hand carts or wheeled carts
• Animals (except certified service animals)
• Firearms and concealed weapons
• Noisemakers
• Political attire
• Signs or banners
• Any other items deemed dangerous or inappropriate by event management

All guests and bags are subject to search upon entry. Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all indoor areas and seating sections—please use designated smoking areas only.

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION
Parking

Yes, parking is available but limited. Parking details, pricing, and pre-purchase options will be announced closer to the event. Check Preakness.com for updates.

Are there ride-share drop-off areas?

Yes. Designated ride-share drop-off and pick-up zones will be clearly marked. Details will be shared closer to the event at Preakness.com.

What's the best way to get to Laurel Park?

Laurel Park Address: 198 Laurel Race Track Road, Laurel, MD 20725
From Washington, D.C.: Take US-50 E/New York Avenue NW toward Baltimore, merge onto MD-295 N (Baltimore-Washington Parkway), exit onto MD-197 N/Laurel Bowie Road toward Laurel, turn right onto Old Annapolis Road, continue onto Whiskey Bottom Road, then turn left onto Laurel Race Track Road.

From Baltimore: Take I-95 South approximately 18 miles, take Exit 33A for MD-198 East toward Laurel, follow MD-198 E for approximately 2 miles, turn left onto Laurel Race Track Road, and follow signs to Laurel Park entrance.

What's the nearest airport?

• Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) – Approximately 20 minutes (closest airport)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) – Approximately 35 minutes
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Approximately 50 minutes

ACCOMMODATIONS
Are there hotels near Laurel Park?

Yes. Nearby hotels include:

• Courtyard by Marriott Laurel: 301-498-8400
• DoubleTree by Hilton Laurel: 301-776-5300
• Residence Inn by Marriott Laurel: 410-799-7332
• Sleep Inn & Suites Laurel: 301-498-8400
• The Hotel at Arundel Preserve: 410-796-9830
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott Laurel: 410-379-9000
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Laurel: 410-799-7100

We recommend booking early, as hotels fill quickly during Preakness week.

FACILITY INFORMATION
Where can I find Guest Services?

Guest Services is located on the 1st floor of the Grandstand. Visit us if you've lost someone or something or need general assistance.

Where is First Aid located?

First Aid is located on the 1st floor of the Grandstand. If you have medication requiring refrigeration, our First Aid team can provide storage.

Where are restrooms located?

Restrooms are located on Grandstand Level 1 and Clubhouse Levels 1, 2, and 3.

Where are elevators located?

Public elevators are accessible on Clubhouse Level 1.

Where can I get food and drinks?

Concessions will be available throughout the facility on the 1st floor of the Grandstand, with additional food and beverage options in premium seating areas.

Where can I smoke?

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all indoor areas, seating sections, and the paddock area. Designated smoking areas are available outside on both the Clubhouse and Grandstand Apron.

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
What accessibility services are available?

Laurel Park offers comprehensive services for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in the following areas:
• Grandstand Simulcast
• Clubhouse Simulcast
• Silks Simulcast
• Sunny Jims
• Tips, Stone Bar, and Tycoons Restaurant
• Terrace Dining (Main Level)
For specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact Guest Services at 877-206-8042.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes. Certified service animals and service animals in training are permitted. All other animals and pets are prohibited.

Can I request special accommodations for disabilities?

Yes. Contact our ticketing team at 877-206-8042 or tix@marylandracing.com in advance to discuss your specific needs.

WAGERING & BETTING
How can I bet on the Preakness Stakes?

You can wager on The Preakness Stakes through:
• 1/ST BET – The official betting app of The Preakness Stakes
• In-person betting at Laurel Park on race days
You must be 18 years or older to place a wager.

How do I cash winning tickets or credit vouchers?

The Maryland Racing Commission requires all winning tickets and credit vouchers to be cashed within one year of issue. You can redeem them:
• In person at any Maryland racetrack or OTB location
• By mail (send via registered or certified mail to):
Laurel Park
ATTN: Mutuel Department
Post Office Box 130
Laurel, Maryland 20725

PREAKNESS WEEK ACTIVITIES
Preakness Week Activities

Preakness week features multiple events, concerts, and activities leading up to race day. Visit the Preakness Festival Week on Preaknessfestival.com for the full schedule.

SPONSORSHIP & PARTNERSHIPS
Sponsorship & Partnerships

For sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please contact Jeremy O’Brien at: Jeremy.O'Brien@1st.com

GROUP SALES & HOSPITALITY
Are there group ticket options or hospitality packages?

Yes. Premium seating, hospitality suites, and group packages are available. For information on group sales, hospitality options, and special packages, please visit Preakness.com or contact:
Phone: 877-206-8042 | Email: tix@marylandracing.com

MEDIA & CREDENTIALS
How do I request media credentials?

Media credential requests for Preakness 151 should be submitted through the official media portal. Visit Preakness.com for detailed instructions and deadlines. Credentials are reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis.

CONTACT INFORMATION
How can I get more information?

Ticket Office
Email: tix@marylandracing.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (until May 15)

General Inquiries

Visit Preakness.com for the latest updates, news, and information.

Follow us on social media for real-time updates:

• Instagram: @preaknessstakes
• Twitter/X: @preaknessstakes
• Facebook: /preaknessstakes
• TikTok: @preaknessstakes

Ticket Policies
Can I have multiple tickets on my phone?

Yes! You will be able to swipe left and right through your available tickets by tapping on the event under the “My Events” tab in account manager.

What if I don’t have a smartphone or have additional questions about mobile ticketing?

If you do not have a smartphone, please contact our Customer Service department at 1-410-542-9400 or email info@marylandracing.com for assistance.

What if I need help day of, a broken device or battery issues?

For your convenience, we will have staff available on site to assist with any mobile inquiries. A dedicated team of experts will also be available at every entrance to ensure that all ticket holders can enter as quickly as possible. You may also visit the Ticket Office. Please have a valid ID for the name on your ticket.

Can I refund/exchange tickets if I can’t use them?

No refunds or exchanges are given.

Is there re-entry if I leave the venue?

No, re-entry is not permitted once you leave the race track. Every individual entering must have a valid, unscanned ticket to enter.

General Questions
Are there any other activities I can attend prior to the Preakness?

Yes, please visit our Preakness Week Events page.

What is the nearest airport?

BWI (Baltimore Washington International)

How old do you have to be to place a bet?

18 years of age.

I've lost someone/something, where do I go?

Report to the security office - 1st floor Grandstand.

What do I do if my medication needs to be kept cool?

Visit the First Aid station located on the 1st floor of the Grandstand.

When does the Post-Position Draw for the Preakness Stakes occur?

The Post Position draw takes place the Monday prior to the Preakness.

Where can I smoke?

Smoking is not permitted in the paddock area or any other indoor area.
Smoking is permitted on both the Clubhouse and Grandstand Apron in designated smoking areas only.  Smoking is prohibited in all seating sections.   

Where do I cash in my winning ticket?

How to cash your Maryland winning ticket or credit voucher:
The Maryland Racing Commission requires that all winning tickets and credit vouchers must be cashed within one year of their issue. 
These can be redeemed in person at any Maryland Intertrack or OTB site, or by mail. 
 
Tickets should be sent registered or certified mail to:
Laurel Park
ATTN: Mutuel Department
Post Office Box 130,
Laurel, Maryland, 20725

Is this a rain or shine event?

Yes.  This is an outdoor event so plan accordingly if inclement weather is in the forecast.  No refunds will be issued due to the weather.