Laurel prepares for 151st Preakness Stakes and influx of visitors
The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes will be held in Laurel, Md., this year, bringing thousands of visitors to the city. Local officials say the temporary relocation, while the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore undergoes renovations, is expected to boost small businesses and generate economic activity across Prince George’s County. The post Laurel prepares for 151st Preakness Stakes and influx of visitors appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
Black News 
By Megan Sayles
AFRO Staff Writer
msayles@afro.com
The second leg of the Triple Crown has found a new, temporary home in Laurel, Md., this year as Pimlico Race Course undergoes renovations. The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes will take place at Laurel Park on May 16, attracting thousands of thoroughbred racing fans to the city.
For Laurel Mayor Keith R. Sydnor, the first Black mayor of the city, hosting the race marks a significant moment in his personal life and the city’s history.
“There’s only three big races in the United States, and the Preakness is always in Baltimore. Now that they’re remodeling the track in Baltimore, people get to come down here to Laurel,” said Sydnor. “Being the mayor of the city during something like this historical event, I’m just proud that I’m here to witness it.”
To prepare for influx of visitors, Sydnor’s administration has been running a campaign called,
“Saddle Up, Laurel!” rallying local businesses, nonprofits and residents around showcasing the best of what the city has to offer.
Ahead of the historic race, the city is also set to host a series of events, including a senior garden party on May 3, live music on Laurel’s main street on May 8, a family movie night on May 12, a paint night on May 13 and a concert at the Mansion at Laurel.
The city is also encouraging residents and visitors to dine at local restaurants through a promotional raffle-style initiative. Individuals who visit and check in at local dining spots can be entered into drawings as part of an effort to drive foot traffic and increase sales for Laurel’s small businesses and broader economy.
“If you’re in the surrounding Laurel area, please come down to the City of Laurel during the week of Preakness,” said Sydnor. “Shop at some of our fine restaurants. We’ve got a winery, hookah spot, West African food, Mediterranean food, Southwestern food—we have something for everybody. We are a very diverse, all-inclusive city, and we’re looking forward to seeing many people come out to have some fun.”
While Laurel leaders are focused on highlighting the city through pre-race events and small-business promotions, Prince George’s County officials say the impact of hosting Preakness 151 extends beyond the city’s limits.
“We anticipate a strong economic boost for local businesses from hotels and restaurants or transportation providers and small vendors as thousands of visitors come into the county,” said County Executive Aisha Braveboy. “Beyond the immediate impact, this event helps elevate our regional profile, reinforcing Prince George’s County as a place where major events can thrive and where businesses can grow.”
Braveboy said her administration is most excited to spotlight the county’s energy, diversity and hospitality.
“Events like Preakness bring people together, and we look forward to the sense of community and celebration that race days inspire,” said Braveboy. “It’s also a chance to highlight the unique character of our neighborhoods and create memorable experiences for both residents and guests alike.”
The post Laurel prepares for 151st Preakness Stakes and influx of visitors appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
