5/14: BROMO ART WALK
Exhibitions. A century ago, Howard Street once bustled with department stores, showrooms, and specialty boutiques as the city’s commercial district. And while many of those stalwarts have come and gone, this downtown hub has been reborn with a new creative energy. Along the Light Rail tracks, throughout the Bromo Arts District, dozens of galleries, music venues, theaters, and collectives have revitalized vacant buildings and converted the neighborhood into a safe haven for lovers of the arts. And twice a year, the best way to experience its resurgence is by roaming this remarkable row during the free Bromo Art Walk.

On May 14 from 5 to 9 p.m., stroll the neighborhood for an evening of exhibits and events at the likes of Current Space, the Eubie Blake Cultural Center, Le Mondo, the Lineup Room. Every door you pass will be bursting with imagination and al walks of Baltimore. Last year was a perfect spring night—fingers crossed for the same weather.

5/1: FRIDA FEST
Festivals. Celebrate Frida Kahlon, the iconic Mexican painter, with a day of artistry, food, and family-friendly fun with local nonprofit Nuestras Raices. Casa de la Cultura, 3403 Gough St. 5-9 p.m. Free 

5/1-2: FLOWER MART
Festivals. Founded in 1911 with the goal of beautifying the city, Flower Mart continues to pack a fragrant, petal-packed punch with flower-themed crafts and workshops, plenty of plants for sale, and favorite foods like the event’s signature lemon stick. Mount Vernon Place, 699 Washington Pl. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 

5/1-3: JANE AUSTEN FEST
Festivals. Calling all Jane Austen fans. For one full weekend, get transported to the author’s cult-followed worlds with themed carriage rides, crafts, and food at Manor Mill in Monkton, including a Manor Mill Playhouse performance of “The Complete Jane Austen: Abridged.” Locations & times vary. $35-565.

5/1-31: ASIA NORTH
Festivals. Back for its seventh year, this collaborative community celebration of Asian arts and culture takes place throughout the month of May in Station North. An array of programming will take place across multiple venues throughout the neighborhood, examining its evolving identies as a Koreatown, arts district, and creative hub. Locations & times vary. Free. 

5/2: KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE
Exhibitions. The American Visionary Art Museum presents Baltimore’s most wacky, wonderful, DIY race that puts hand-made, human-powered contraptions to the test during a 15-mile sprint over land, water, sand, and mud, including AVAM’s own 15-foot-tall “poodle,” Fifi. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 9:30 a.m. Free.

5/2: MARYLAND AT 250: THE VALUES THAT SHAPE US
Classes & Lectures. The Dred Scott Decision of 1857 lit fire to an already growing national crisis. In this afternoon lecture, local historian and Johns Hopkins University professor Martha Jones explores the conversation surrounding birthright citizenship and the 14th Amendment. Maryland Center for History & Culture, 610 Park Ave. 2 p.m. Free.

5/2: MARQEE BALL
Galas & Fundraisers. Whether you’re a hardcore comic fan or an everyday hero, come sporting your most heroic (or villainous) costumes to Creative Alliance’s annual fundraiser, fit with a cocktail hour, seated dinner, dancing, and awards ceremony honoring Roz Cauthen and Tom Hall for their contributions to Baltimore Arts. The Patterson at Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $110. 

5/2-7/11: BEYOND THE SURFACE
Exhibitions. In contrast to today’s constant flood of imagery, printmaking is a slower medium that requires thoughtful assembly to highlight voices and stories. In this collection of works by 12 artists, examine the concept of visibility through this medium. IGalerie Myrtis, 2224 N. Charles St. Tues.-Sat. 2-6 p.m. Free.

5/5: REDEFINING INDUSTRY
Galas & Fundraisers. Every year, the Baltimore Museum of Industry recognizes five extraordinary innovators working to uplift Baltimore’s economy and social connection. This year’s celebration includes hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, live music, and a Stoop Storytelling performance by the honorees. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. 5:30-8 p.m. $75-100. 

5/6: STATE OF THE WATERSHED
Classes & Lectures. Baltimore Harbor Waterkeeper Alice Volpitta discusses 15 years of water -quality data from across the Baltimore Harbor watershed. Learn from Blue Water Baltimore and partners about the harbor’s health and how we can restore it to vitality for safe recreation. Institute for Marine and Environmental Technology, 701 E. Pratt St. 5-7:30 p.m. $30. 

5/8: I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY…BEFORE 9 P.M.
Music. Stoop Productions presents this early-bird dance party at Remington’s fan-favorite rock venue. Downstairs, bust a move to ’90s hits with DJ Amsies, or head upstairs for ’80s jams with DJ King Cole. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 5 p.m. $23.23. 

5/8-9: VINYLCON
Festivals. This annual celebration of all things vinyl creates a crate-digging mecca for music lovers and collectors, featuring a colossal selection of records, memorabilia, and other recorded media, plus a full bar and DJ tunes at this Hampden brewery. Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41st St. Fri. 3-10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $9-30. 

5/8-9: CYLBURN MARKET DAY
Festivals. For one day only, get a behind-the-scenes sale at Cylburn Arboretum, with plants for purchase from their on-site nursery on Saturday, as well as food trucks and family-friendly activities like face painting. Just in time for Mother’s Day, start the celebrations early with “Party on the Porch,” an adults-only fundraiser that includes drinks and live music. Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave. Fri. 5-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free-$65.87. 

5/8-6/12: CONFLUENCE: REIMAGINING BALTIMORE’S WATERWAYS
Exhibitions. In retrospective exhibition of The Future of Here: A Glimpse of a River Culture to Come, exhibited at the Peale museum in 2025, a collective of artists and researchers at Johns Hopkins University expands our imagination of the future of Jones Falls. Area 405, 405 E. Oliver St. Thurs.-Sat. 1-4 p.m. Free.

5/9: REMFEST
Festivals. It’s been a few years since Remington became the most happening neighborhood  in Baltimore. Join small business, local artists, and nonprofits for a day of multi-stage live music performances, local food trucks, and fun for the whole family. Remington Ave. 12-9 p.m. Free.

5/9: BLACK PANTHER FAMILY AFTERNOON
Exhibitions. In celebration of The Walters’ Douriean Fletcher: Jewelry of the Afrofuture exhibition, enjoy a community screening of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther to see featured pieces on the big screen. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 1-4 p.m. Free. 

5/13: ORCHKIDS SPRING CELEBRATION CONCERT
Music. This is a Baltimore Symphony Orchestra concert not to miss. For one night only, kindergarten students through high-school seniors from over 70 Baltimore schools perform in a variety of ensembles including brass, string, and wind instruments, with light snacks and refreshments. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 6 p.m. Pay-what-you-wish. 

5/15-16: PREAKNESS
Sports. While the iconic Pimlico Race Course undergoes renovations, the 151st Preakness will be held at Laurel Park. On Friday, horses compete in the traditional Black-Eyed Susan race, followed by the main event on Saturday, featuring the country’s finest Thoroughbred horses and some of the year’s best people watching. Laurel Park, 98 Laurel Race Track Rd., Laurel. Times & prices vary.

5/16-17: DAVID BYRNE
Music. This one-time Maryland resident and multi-faceted Talking Heads frontman performs both new and old hits on his solo stop in downtown Baltimore, only a few miles from where he was raised in Arbutus. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. 8 p.m. $339-1,094. 

5/17: BALTIMORE VINTAGE EXPO
Markets. The region’s most coveted vintage and antique dealers come together in celebration of the expo’s 10-year anniversary. Shop a curated lineup of timeless, collectible retro finds, quality clothing for all genders, jewelry, decor, furniture, and more. Union Collective, 1700 W. 41st St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

5/17-6/14: EMMA
Theater. Kate Hamill’s modern adaptation brings mischief, humor, and a few surprising twists to the classic Jane Austen love story. Self-proclaimed matchmaker Emma Woodhouse has a knack for meddling, ultimately leading her to face her pride and come to terms with her own feelings. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. Times vary. $5-101.

5/21-24: MARYLAND DEATH FEST XXI
Music. For 21 years, this hard-rocking music festival has moshpitted its week across Memorial Day Weekend, featuring the region’s most potent metal artists like Putridity, Melting Rot, and Slimelord. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. Times vary. $43-373. 

5/23: FANTASY MACHINE
Exhibitions. Now in its seventh year, this experimental fashion and eclectic pop-up shop returns to the Bromo Arts District, featuring looks from multiple talented designers across two shows, followed by an-after party. Current Space, 421 N. Howard St. 5:30 p.m. Free.

5/23-24: ARTSCAPE
Festivals. For the second year in its new downtown location, join thousands of Baltimoreans during two days of the city’s biggest arts festival. Swing by the Devin Allen-curated Scout Art Fair, dive into immersive art pieces, snack on local food trucks, and listen to live music from artists including The Roots and Stephanie Mills. And when the sun sets, Artscape After Dark comes to life with illuminated installations and DJ sets. 100 Holliday St. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Free.

5/23-24: BREW AT THE ZOO
Food & Drink. Unleash your wild side this Memorial Day weekend during the zoo’s annual beer festival. Snag some craft suds (as well as cider, wine, and seltzers) and amble amidst the animals, with food, live music, and Charm City Trivia to boot. Maryland Zoo, 1 Safari Pl. 1-7 p.m. $40-86. 

5/24: SOWEBO FEST
Festivals. If you know, you know about this beloved Memorial Day weekend tradition celebrating Southwest Baltimore. Explore more than 80 vendors, bring the kids for activities and crafts, and catch live music performances across four stages. Historic Hollins Market, 1100 Hollins St. 12-8 p.m. Free.

5/27: COMMUTER CHAOS
Theater. Getting from point A to point B isn’t always so easy in Baltimore. During this Stoop Storytelling show in Ridgley’s Delight, in partnership with Bikemore, hear about our daily commutes, in all their humor, surprise, and mayhem. Checkerspot Brewing Company, 1421 Ridgely St. 7 p.m. $25. 

5/28: FUTURE ISLANDS
Music. This trailblazing indie rock band celebrates 20 years together in a hometown show along the Baltimore waterfront, featuring guest appearances by other local gets, Dan Deacon and Ed Schraeder’s Music Beat. Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. Prices vary. 

5/29-6/20: AMERICAN VAMP
Theater. The Baltimore Rock Opera Society is back, baby. In their latest production filled with ’80s-inspired rock ballads, Laura van Helsing finds herself in a trio of cutthroat vampires competing to reach the top of the corporate ladder at PlasmaCorp, leaving her to decide between success and survival. Zion Church of the City of Baltimore, 400 E. Lexington St. Times vary. $10-100.

5/30: BIRDS, BOURBON, & BACON
Food & Drink. Baltimore City Recreation and Parks presents a morning meet-up to revel in a boozy breakfast as well as the natural beauty of Gwynn Falls/Leakin Park. Gwynn Falls/Leakin Park, 4921 Windsor Mill Rd. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $106.60. 

5/21: PREAKNESS STAKES
Each year, on the third Saturday in May, myriad hooves (amid a slew of ornate headpieces) touch down on dirt in Baltimore to signify the running of the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in racing’s Triple Crown. And after several hiccups in the wake of COVID-19, including a postponement of the 2020 race, which was rescheduled for October (for the first time in its history), this year’s iteration of the much-adored tradition is expected to go off without a hitch. From Black-Eyed Susan Day festivities, which kick off on May 20, to the Infieldfest, with party-favorite headliners like Marshmexllo and The Chainsmokers, there’s lots of fun in store for this year’s guests and, quite possibly, some fillies to look out for, says Frank Vespe, president of the Maryland Racing Media Association and the founder of The Racing Biz, a horse racing news website. “I’m looking forward to May 21 being a beautiful day, and a great racing card. [The Preakness] is one of the great moments in sports, and I can’t wait to see Baltimore return to full volume.”

TO 5/1: BALTIMORE FINE ART PRINT FAIR
Festivals. For four days, the Baltimore Innovation Center will play host to an assortment of contemporary U.S. prints. Baltimore Innovation Center. Times vary. $15-75. 

TO 5/1: MARYLAND FILM FESTIVAL
Film. After two years of virtual showings, the festival returns to Station North (and select locations spread throughout the city) to bring film lovers five full days of in-person events. SNF Parkway Theatre. Times and prices vary. 

5/1: FLOCK OF DIMES
Music. Accompanied by guest Karima Walker, Jen Wassner (one half of the Baltimore indie group Wye Oak) and band bring their heavenly sounds to the Charles Village venue. The Ottobar. 7 p.m. $18-20. 

5/1: HANDEL FESTIVAL
Music. For one night in Lutherville, delight in well-known works by the beloved Baroque composer. Look out for coronation anthems like “Zadok the Priest” and suites including “Music for the Royal Fireworks.” Church of the Resurrection. 4 p.m. $5-35. 

5/1: THE PIATIGORSKY MEMORIAL CONCERT
Music. At Shriver hall, renowned young siblings Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason flaunt their passion for the cello and piano. Shriver Hall. 5:30 p.m. $10-44. 

5/2: 5TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC
Sports. Ticket proceeds sourced from this beloved outdoor event (complete with gifts, refreshments, contests, and, of course, a day of golfing) will help SECU MD support deserving local students. Hobbit’s Glen Golf Course. 10 a.m. $10-5,000. 

5/5: MLK ARTISTIC CELEBRATION BY KONDWANI FIDEL: UNTIL THE END OF RHYMES
Poetry. Joined by local artists like Black Assets and John Tyler,  the Baltimore-based poet, author, and English professor will pay a fitting tribute to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King with live excerpts from his forthcoming EP. The Walters Art Museum. 6 p.m. Free

TO 5/3: VISIONS OF NIGHT: BALTIMORE NOCTURNES
Exhibits. Featuring works by Baltimore contributing photographer, J.M. Giordano, this showcase brings a retrospective glimpse of local nightlife to the Maryland Center for History and Culture. Maryland Center for History and Culture. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$9. 

5/3-8: AIN’T TOO PROUD: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS
Theater. The 12-time Tony-nominated production—which follows the vocal group’s rise to success from the streets of Detroit to the chart-topping spotlight—brings its trademark Motown harmonies and footwork to The Hippodrome. The Hippodrome Theatre. Times vary. $48-161. 

5/5: WTMD FIRST THURSDAY FESTIVAL KICKOFF
Music. Following a two-year break, the much-loved music fest returns to Canton’s waterfront with acts like Parquet Courts and Baltimore-based indie darling Peach Face. Stick around for DJ sets and quirky, handmade wares by more than 20 local artisans. Canton Waterfront Park. 5 p.m. 

5/6-8: M3 ROCK FESTIVAL
Music. In Columbia, the bygone days of hard rock glam rock return with acts like Lizzy Borden, Heaven’s Edge, and Lilian Axe. Merriweather Post Pavilion. Times and prices vary. 

5/7: BALTIMORE BY BALTIMORE, FIRST SATURDAYS AT THE AMP
Music. The inaugural installment of the Inner Harbor music series, courtesy of Waterfront Partnership, is set to feature food trucks, pop-up shops, and local artists (think the likes of Eat the Cake Band and John Tyler). Inner Harbor Amphitheater. 12-8 p.m. 

5/7: CHECKERSPOT MOTHER’S DAY MARKET
Festivals. Book it to the South Baltimore brewery to grab a sudsy sip and score a thoughtful, handmade gift for Mom. Checkerspot Brewing Co. 12 p.m. 

5/7: TIANQUIZTLI & A SPECIAL DAY WITH MAMA
Festivals. In Highlandtown, live music, workshops, poetry, sweet treats, and dance performances to honor Mom reflect rich Latin culture. All mothers in attendance will receive a special gift, handmade by local artesanas. Creative Alliance. 3-7 p.m. 

5/8: JOEL ROSS
Music. In Highlandtown, the up-and-coming jazz creative (known for tracks including “Gato’s Gift”) is set to cultivate good vibes through song. Creative Alliance. 8 p.m. $17-20.

5/10: TIM KASHER
Music. On the heels of his fourth album, Middling Age, the alternative rocker joins friends Laura Jane Grace and Anthony Green for a Charm City jam session. Baltimore Soundstage. 7 p.m. $23-25.

5/12: ALBUMS AT 50: ‘SUPERFLY’
Music. Towson radio station WTMD’s new music series, presented in conjunction with the Baltimore Boom Bap Society, is set to celebrate the sounds of ’72, beginning with fresh takes on Curtis Mayfield’s Superfly. 1 Olympic Place. 8 p.m. $24-30. 

5/12: JAZZ: AMERICA’S SECRET SONIC WEAPON
Music, Lectures & Classes. On Johns Hopkins’ newly renovated Evergreen terrace, learn how jazz was used to mitigate the horrors of the Cold War, establishing Americans as trailblazers of cultural freedom. Evergreen Museum and Library. 6-8 p.m. $10-20.

5/13-28: GLITTERUS: DRAGON RISING
Theater. For one night in West Baltimore, join Glitterus, the universe’s last remaining dragon, as she fights to save her lost eggs and defeat the power- greedy Tower Wizard. Zion Church of the City of Baltimore. Times, prices vary. 

5/13-15: THE LOST WEEKEND
Festivals. For three full days, beloved Charm City bookstore Greedy Reads is set to spotlight local literary culture, including Baltimore’s own senior editor Ron Cassie (If You Love Baltimore, It Will Love You Back). Greedy Reads Remington. Times vary.

5/14: OLD PRO OPEN
Sports. This year, the East Coast’s largest mini-golfing tournament kicks off in Ocean City with a slew of sips made possible by Union Craft Brew- ing. Snag some all-you-care-to-drink cans and stay tuned to see who wins the famous Master Putter jacket. Old Pro Golf. 3 p.m. $25-135.

TO 5/15: DREAM HOU$E
Theater. Eliana Pipes’ new play, in which two Latinx sisters guest star on a HGTV-style program to help them sell their family’s home, explores the costs of progress in their neighborhood. By cashing in on new digs, do the sisters put their heritage at stake? Center Stage. Times and prices vary. 

5/15: FESTIVAL OF DOGS AT EVERGREEN
Festivals. Spend the morning on Johns Hopkins’ Evergreen terrace, surrounded by talented, four-legged creatures—and watch as they face off to take the Best in Show title. Evergreen Museum and Library. 10 a.m. $25. 

5/19: THE ERIC SCOTT BAND
Music. For one night, the Washington D.C.-born soul musician and his band—known for jazzy, feel-good jams including “Peace Bomb” and “Get Up”—are set to dazzle fans in Harbor East with an array of 1970s-adjacent sounds. Keystone Korner. 7:30 p.m. $25-30. 

5/20: PREAKNESS LIVE
Festivals. A day before the big race, rapper Megan Thee Stallion (joined by hip-hop maven Ms. Lauryn Hill) headlines the first-time arts and music festival in Park Heights. Pimlico Race Course. 3 p.m. $49-175. 

5/20-22: AMERICAN CRAFT MADE MARKETPLACE
Festivals. For three full days, The Baltimore Convention Center comes to life with handmade finds (shop everything from basketry and jewelry to ceramic wares and trendy threads). Baltimore Convention Center. Times vary. 

5/20: COMEDY IN THE COURTYARD
Comedy. Joined by host Mike Quindlen and his guests, NYC-born comic Ariel Elias headlines this side splitting night of jokes in old Ellicott City. R.N.S Little Market Café. 8 p.m. $15. 

5/20-22: BALTIMORE CRANKIE FEST
Festivals. Now in its eighth year, this eclectic local tribute to the panoramic “crankie” scroll descends on Highlandtown. Enjoy three nights of fireside performances with artists such as Samuel James and Maisie O’Brien. Creative Alliance. Times vary. $19-22. 

5/21: INFIELDFEST
Music. The party-ready sounds of Moneybagg Yo and The Chainsmokers are headed to the racetracks for a live-broadcast performance. Pimlico Race Course. Times TBD. $75-199. 

5/21: RIDE FOR THE FEAST
Food & Dining. Throw on a bike helmet and gear to help Movable Feast raise some much-needed funds to combat local hunger. Talbot County Community Center. Times vary. Free-$60. 

5/21-9/5: VERY ERIC CARLE
Exhibits. Port Discovery becomes home to the children’s author’s whimsical and cherished pals (think creatures like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Very Lonely Firefly, and Very Busy Spider). Port Discovery. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$19.95. 

5/24: DYLAN – A CELEBRATION ON HIS 81ST BIRTHDAY
Music. The Complete Unknowns’ annual ode to Bob Dylan kicks off on his birthday, with guest acts including The Soul Magnets sharing the Highlandtown stage. Creative Alliance. 7 p.m. $20-23. 

5/26: PASSION AND PURPOSE: VOICES OF MARYLAND’S CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVISTS
Lectures & Classes. Led by staff at The Maryland Center for History and Culture, this panel discussion explores the ways in which Black Marylanders strive for racial equality. The Maryland Center for History and Culture. 6 p.m. 

TO 4/2023: VISIONS OF NIGHT: BALTIMORE NOCTURNES
Exhibits.  Featuring works by Baltimore contributing photographer, J.M. Giordano, this showcase brings a retrospective glimpse of local nightlife to the Maryland Center for History and Culture. Maryland Center for History & Culture. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$9. 

Art Space is a recurring element in the UpFront section of our print publication that spotlights a local artist or project making an impact in the city at large. Here’s what’s going on this month:

Before a sea of statement hats and steely horses takes over the Pimlico Race Course for the Preakness Stakes this May, two local institutions will capture the event creatively with The Art of Racing. The online competition, presented by MICA and the Maryland Jockey Club, asks local artists to present their two-dimensional homages to the Baltimore tradition. From March 2-20, fans can cast a vote for their favorite piece, here.

April Smith might not exactly fit the stereotypical image of a cigar-chomping, visor-wearing weekday horse race bettor. “I’m 5-foot-2, 106 pounds, and a woman of a certain age,” she says. (Her twin sister won’t allow her to reveal the precise number.)

But on the days the Ruxton resident leaves her house to visit Pimlico Race Course, she is as much a regular as anyone else at the track. “I go down there to bet,” she says.

People always ask why. “‘Oh, that’s a terrible neighborhood,’ they tell me,” Smith says of Park Heights, where Pimlico—the Home of the Preakness, as the dilapidated signs say outside—is located.

First, she says, there’s not much to worry about on the 110- acre, largely desolate plot of land. Outside of Preakness week, when traffic backs up on I-83 and neighbors look to make money selling parking spots, afternoons at the track tend to be pretty sleepy. At most, a few dozen bettors might stroll across the linoleum floor in the mid-century-modern clubhouse, put down money at a teller’s window, and watch races from other parts of the country simulcast on the televisions.

But more importantly, Smith says, “There’s just something about the place.” And she’s not talking about the 150-year- old track’s well-documented warts. (Just a few of those warts: the outdated clubhouse that opened in 1960; the now condemned, century-old north-end grandstand; and the mismatched 1950s-era enclosed grandstand building between them.)

Horses race on Pimlico’s one-mile dirt oval no more than 12 days each year, but when Smith goes there, visions of races past, like Seabiscuit’s famous Great Depression-era battle with War Admiral, seem to rise from the dirt. The echoes of massive crowds, spanning generations, that have walked the grounds each third Saturday of May, nearly reverberate off the walls. And the stories of Preakness Stakes champions such as Secretariat, the 1973 winner who owns the race record, and celebrity trainers like silver- haired Bob Baffert, who have come seeking the eternal glory of the second jewel of the world-renowned Triple Crown, are shared frequently.

“The ghosts of Pimlico are still there,” Smith says. “You have to be half-dead to not sit there and have it wash over you.”

Born in Baltimore and raised in Annapolis in a sailing family, Smith, a history buff and longtime local tour guide, got turned on to horse racing in 2003 when the Triple Crown longshot Funny Cide passed through Pimlico. Smith quickly learned to appreciate the historic significance in her own backyard, figuratively and now literally.

From 2006 to 2015, she led sunrise tours of Pimlico’s stables each Preakness week, sharing all that she knew about Old Hilltop, as it was nicknamed in the 1800s. She is the very active co-moderator of the Friends of Pimlico Facebook group. She owns three horses—two of which live in a barn on her home property—and shovels manure every morning. Earlier this year, she converted her adult son’s former bedroom into a Pimlico shrine, complete with jars of dirt from the track.

In short, she simply loves the history of the real thing, just a 15-minute drive away. Sure, a serious upgrade may be long overdue. That became obvious back in 1998 when an electrical fire knocked out power on Preakness Day. But as the 146th running of the famed Preakness approaches this May, Smith fears a bit too much of Pimlico’s priceless authenticity will eventually disappear forever. That is, if everything she’s read and heard about the track’s long-awaited and closer- than-ever redevelopment plans is true.

What to do with the decrepit Pimlico Race Course has been a source of endless talks, studies, and disputes for decades. Should the property be renovated or razed? Would the state take it over? How did its condition deteriorate to this point? Should the Preakness move 30 miles south to Laurel Racetrack, the preference of Pimlico owner Belinda Stronach?

Finally, in October 2019, negotiators representing three groups—the city, the Canadian-based Stronach Group, and the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association—reached a surprising agreement: to keep the Preakness in Baltimore, at Pimlico, but in a completely reimagined venue.

The deal includes designs to tear down basically everything that is there now, rotate the dirt oval 30 degrees, and build a scaled-down clubhouse. It also calls to convert the remaining land into a mixed-use, $180-million public venue (think concerts, youth sports, and other events) that could help transform the neighboring Park Heights community.

During the negotiations about the track’s future, Belinda Stronach agreed to cede ownership of Pimlico’s 110 acres, valued at $50 million, to the city. In exchange, $155 million in state funds would be allocated for improvements to Laurel—the year-round working track of Maryland’s billion-dollar racing industry—which Stronach had once eyed as a “supertrack” to host Preakness, too. The plans for Laurel feature a mini-city of sorts—space for roughly 1,500 stalls to house the state’s thoroughbreds.

But the Stronach Group isn’t completely out of the Pimlico business. The arrangement calls for most of the 80 acres outside of the reconfigured track to be held or sold by the city for redevelopment.

The remaining property, including the new clubhouse and infield, will be used as a fully public space for 10 months of the year. But for roughly two months leading up to and just after Preakness, operations will be handed back over to The Stronach Group, which will pay between $8 and $10 million a year to build out temporary tents for corporate suites, seating, and other infrastructure for the big race, then tear it all down once it’s over.

In other words, if you’re expecting to show up to Preakness in a few years and see an uber-glamorous structure like Kentucky’s Churchill Downs, don’t hold your breath. Those in charge of overseeing the rebuilding of Pimlico and Laurel—the folks at the Maryland Stadium Authority, who led the construction of Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium—say we have to be realistic.

“The new permanent structure needs to be iconic,” says Stadium Authority executive Gary McGuigan, who is directing the project, “but iconic doesn’t mean it’s the biggest thing in the world.”

For someone like Smith, one of Pimlico’s most passionate fans, the final result will very likely be an unwanted departure from tradition, and perhaps feel like a purely made-for-TV event as opposed to the genuine attraction that it is now. Six turf sports fields may replace the dirt infield that’s there today, and there are no plans for any grand structure like the one that’s now visible from Northern Parkway.

When news of the redevelopment pact broke, Smith was able to see some of the early renderings. What she saw was a much smaller, glass-walled, white-roofed clubhouse, with temporary suites scattered around it on Preakness Day. The structure looked to her like a sterile Kleenex box or the much-maligned Denver airport, lacking character befitting Pimlico’s rich history.

Practically speaking, Smith understands Pimlico is a “neglected historic site. The old grandstand leaks like a sieve,” she says. “You’ve got tubs collecting water there. But I’m not a big fan of the new plan. If they want to get rid of the clubhouse, I can live with that, but there are certain features that should be saved.”

Like, for example, the four-ton, 30- foot long bas-relief sculpture at the building’s entrance—it depicts an 1877 match race at Pimlico that shut down Congress for a day so legislators could attend—and the solid timbers that the 127-year-old grandstand is made from. “We don’t allow trees to get that old anymore,” she says. “They’re irreplaceable.”

Other critics lament the use of nearly $400 million in state funds—even if most of the money is coming from revenue already earmarked for the state horse racing industry— for what many consider a dying sport, despite its tradition in the city and state.

Still, the deal keeps the Super Bowl- like event of Preakness in Baltimore, a tradition that started in May of 1873, two years before the first Kentucky Derby. And for the surrounding community across Park Heights, Winner, and Belvedere Avenues, the redevelopment represents a chance to seriously invest in a low-income, high-crime area that has enjoyed relatively little direct economic benefit from the estimated $30 million or so that Preakness generates for the Baltimore area each year.

“PIMLICO CAN’T JUST BE IN PARK HEIGHTS, BUT IT HAS TO BE FOR PARK HEIGHTS, TOO.”

Studies have shown that the life expectancy in Park Heights—whose north end begins at Pimlico—is more than 10 years shorter than for those living in upper-middle-class Mount Washington a mere mile away on the other side of the track.

The goal for developers and neighborhood leaders, like Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, who grew up blocks from Pimlico, is to use the land to create more year-round jobs, perhaps through a hotel and a grocery store that will serve both residents and adjacent Sinai Hospital’s employees and patients.

“Pimlico can’t just be something that’s in Park Heights, but it has to be for Park Heights too,” says Scott, who attended his first Preakness in 2019 after becoming City Council president. “My lasting memory is the world descending on my neighborhood, then the next day we were forgotten again, and that’s what I’m trying to make sure that we don’t do anymore.”

As for the idea that money might be better spent elsewhere, Scott says, “Why not invest in Pimlico? As we go through this process of redeveloping Park Heights through a lens of equity, why can’t we invest in something big and spectacular in a neighborhood that has significantly been under-invested in? People need to see that investment, just like in other places in the city.”

If you’ve driven past Pimlico lately, you’ll notice nothing has changed, and it likely won’t for a while. Most of the year, you may see a horse galloping around the track with an exercise rider or being led to or from the stables, but you’re just as likely to see no activity. The starting gate rests unused near Northern Parkway.

For 50 weeks, no races are run. Trash whips around the media parking lot and a handful of off-track bettors come and go from the south grandstand entrance. In February, The Stadium Authority selected the project’s lead design firm, downtown-based Ayers Saint Gross. New ground won’t be broken for at least two years, according to McGuigan, as more contractors are selected and various tax agreements and land-transfer details are worked out between The Stronach Group, Baltimore City, and Anne Arundel County.

What’s more, logistics may dictate work starting at the year-round Laurel facility before Pimlico, which means “there will be a Preakness, one or two, that will be at an unfinished facility,” McGuigan warns.

The framework of a reinvented Pimlico is already set in law, though. Specifically, the Racing and Community Development Act of 2020, which passed in the state legislature last May. It was the result of focused negotiations that began with a break-the-ice meeting between former Baltimore City Mayor Jack Young and Belinda Stronach in her chalet tent at the 2019 Preakness and ended with an announcement five months later.

It was surprising news, given the extremely private and relatively quick nature of the negotiations. In recent years, discussions about the future of Pimlico had been marked mainly by public back-and-forth between the interested parties and contentious Annapolis hearings.

In fact, on the day Young met with Stronach, a lawsuit filed by Young’s predecessor, Catherine Pugh, seeking not only the rights to Pimlico property but also the intellectual property of the Preakness, right down to the Woodlawn Vase given out to the winner, was still pending.

After the Healthy Holly children’s book scandal put Young in the Mayor’s office, the sides agreed to start over at the urging of intermediaries, namely Bill Cole, the former city councilman and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation; Joe De Francis, Pimlico and Laurel’s former owner (along with his sister) who completed his sale of both tracks to Frank Stronach, Belinda’s father, in 2007; and Alan Rifkin, an attorney for Preakness Stakes and the Maryland Jockey Club, which is owned by The Stronach Group.

On Preakness Day 2019, “It just so happened that the Mayor found his way into Belinda Stronach’s tent,” Rifkin recalls. Young, the East Baltimore native, and Stronach, the Canadian who inherited her father’s horse racing empire, chatted off in a corner for about 10 minutes. They agreed to “put away the swords,” Rifkin says, “and come up with a way to resolve the problem.”

A little more than a week after the 2019 Preakness Stakes, Rifkin started renewed discussions with the city (with Cole as its negotiator) and brought Horseman’s Association president Alan Foreman, representing state horse trainers and owners, to the talks.

Ultimately, the group settled on a potential combination of redeploying funds from the state’s existing Racetrack Facility Renewal Account ($8.5 million annually), Horseman Associations’ purse revenue ($5 million), and a portion of the city’s annual slot-machine revenue from the state ($3.5 million) to raise an estimated $17 million per year to pay off a 30-year state-issued bond for the work at Laurel and Pimlico. From there, Stronach agreed to hand over Pimlico to the city, while retaining rights to the Preakness itself.

“That was extraordinary,” says Rifkin. “It was a transformative moment. Pimlico has been for so many years a barrier between communities. As a result of this project, it will become a bridge between communities.”

What the bridge looks like in the end remains to be seen. Those early public renderings might not look like the final product. Even Rifkin, a member of the group who commissioned the images, says as much, explaining that they were mostly needed to give legislators a visual of what could be possible, not what will definitely happen. McGuigan, of the Stadium Authority, says the same.

“Will it look like those initial renderings that were shown?” he says. “It might, but there’s going be a lot more ideas thrown around the next year or two.”

There will be public meetings and no doubt various asks and opinions from different stakeholders in what happens at Pimlico: the city, neighbors, politicians, horse owners, trainers, jockeys, and most certainly Friends of Pimlico like April Smith. At this point in the saga of Pimlico, Smith recognizes the need to remake the track, but doesn’t want to feel like the place lost its identity when she shows up to bet or simply reminisce.

Forget the ghosts, she says. The ashes of several actual people—equine professionals and enthusiasts alike, including 1909 Preakness-winning jockey Willie Doyle—have been scattered across the property, further proof of how much the track has meant to people over the decades.

“This is hallowed ground,” Smith says. “As rundown as Pimlico is, it breaks attendance records every year because everybody knows that this is the real thing. When I go, invariably I’ll start talking to somebody, and they always tell me that they love just being there, just sitting there and taking it in. It’s not just a figment of my imagination.”

5/15: 2021 Preakness Stakes 
Last year would not exactly be described as “off to the races,” particularly for the beloved Preakness Stakes, whose annual May race got postponed to October 3 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Even then, only essential personnel were allowed to attend.

But this year, the second jewel of the Triple Crown returns for its 146th running during its regularly scheduled time. On Saturday May 15, thoroughbreds will once again run at Pimlico Race Course, with Black-Eyed Susan Day kicking off on Friday. With social-distancing guidelines in place, only 10,000 spectators, compared to more than 100,000 in a normal year, will be in attendance at this highly coveted race.

TO 5/1: FLOWER MART 2021
The beloved annual Flower Mart returns after a 2020 hiatus with a virtual, two-day event, bringing the joys of local flowers and plants, as well as crafts, food, and beverages from restaurants and artists, into the comfort of your own home. Mount Vernon Place Conservancy. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 

5/1: SIDEWALK SERENADES WITH ILYAIMY AND AL ROGERS JR.
The Creative Alliance’s popular pandemic-inspired concert series is back with separate performances by soul artist ilyAIMY and rapper Al Rogers Jr. throughout the day at community-hosted pop-ups across the city. Creative Alliance. Times vary. $100-120.

5/1: RIDE FOR THE FEAST
This annual charitable bike ride raises money for Moveable Feast, an organization providing meals and nutritional information to individuals battling illnesses and food insecurity. Pick between 40-, 62-, or 100-mile stretches across the Eastern Shore. Moveable Feast. Times vary. $20-65.

5/1: HONEY, I SHRUNK THE KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE
The city’s beloved human-powered race goes virtual this year with miniature art sculptures competing over multiple landscapes, including land, sea, sand, and mud. Individuals can also enter their own models into the race. American Visionary Art Museum. 11 a.m.

TO 5/2: CHORAL ARTS GALA 2021
This virtual, multi-day celebration will feature Tony-nominated Broadway star Euan Morton and showcase various auction items. Proceeds from this annual fundraiser will benefit the Baltimore Choral Arts Society’s education and outreach programs. Baltimore Choral Arts. Times vary. $25.

5/2: CALIDORE QUARTET
Shriver Hall presents the Calidore Quartet, an internationally acclaimed music group, with a pre-recorded performance from New York City, available to stream through May 10. Shriver Hall. 5:30 p.m. $15.

5/4: LIVE ART TALK: STRIKEWARE
In this virtual conversation, members of strikeWare, a Baltimore-based art collective, will chat with Joy Davis, the museum’s Adult and Community Program Manager, about topics ranging from collaboration in art to the influence of historic institutions on their work. The Walters Art Museum. 5:30 p.m.

5/6: BALTIMORE HEBREW’S VIRTUAL NIGHT OF THE STARS
Actor, director, and stand-up comic Kevin Pollak will headline this virtual event benefitting Baltimore Hebrew’s Youth Community. Pollak’s career spans numerous decades and mediums, from hit movies to award winning TV shows and comedy acts. Baltimore Hebrew Congregation. 7:30 p.m. $75-200.

5/8: MARYLAND HALF MARATHON & 5K
The annual Maryland Half Marathon goes virtual to benefit The University of Maryland Mariene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center. Registered participants will get an official race T-shirt, an electronic bib to print, race results, and access to their own personal dashboard. University of Maryland Medical System Foundation. $50.

TO 5/9: A PLAY FOR THE LIVING IN A TIME OF EXTINCTION
In this virtual performance series from Center Stage, Baltimore-based playwright Miranda Rose Hall and director Taibi Magar offer an interactive play on being human in a time of climate change and mass extinction. Baltimore Center Stage. Times vary. $15-40.

5/13: BIRD-FRIENDLY GARDEN DESIGN ON ZOOM
In this virtual workshop geared toward advanced gardeners, bird lovers will learn how to design and maintain their gardens to ensure landscapes that support wildlife. Patterson Park Audubon Center. 7-8:30 p.m

5/14 & 22: ZOO TWILIGHT FAMILY STROLL
Participants can see nocturnal animals and partake in interactive games during this guided tour of the Maryland Zoo, which will also provide insight into how animals cope with living in the dark. Mary- land Zoo. 5-7 p.m. $35-45.

TO 5/15: ASIA NORTH 2021 EXHIBITION
In this month-long exhibition, the Asian Arts & Culture Center at Towson University and Central Baltimore Partnership will celebrate the art, culture, history, and heritage of Baltimore’s Charles North community. Asian Arts & Culture Center at Towson University. Times vary.

5/15-11/27: BMI FARMERS’ MARKET
The Baltimore Museum of Industry’s farmers market takes place every Saturday with farms, artisans, food trucks, and more, outside in the parking lot. Baltimore Museum of Industry. Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

TO 5/16: STEPHANIE SYJUCO: VANISHING POINT (OVERLAY)
In this three-part installation at the BMA, Filipino-American artist Stephanie Syjuco depicts fictional flags and 19th-century images that signify white supremacy and exclusionary aspects of history. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

5/20: GARDENING FOR CRITTERS & DRINKS WITH BITTERS
Nancy Lawson, author of The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife, debunks myths on wild species and teaches participants how to implement gardening techniques that minimize hazards to wildlife. Irvine Nature Center. 7:30 p.m. $20.

5/21: DESIGNING THE AVAM 
The latest installment of the Virtual Histories series—hosted by The Baltimore Architecture Foundation and Baltimore Heritage—will take attendees inside the American Visionary Art Museum with founder and director Rebecca Hoffberger and architects Diane Cho and Rebecca Swanston. Tune in to celebrate and reflect upon the beloved museum’s unique design. Baltimore Architecture Foundation. 1-1:30 p.m.

TO 5/23: IS EDWARD SNOWDEN SINGLE?
As part of Single Carrot Theatre’s 13th season, this potentially in-person play will explore forgiveness after experiencing betrayal from loved ones. Single Carrot Theatre. Times and prices vary.

TO 5/23: THE AMAZING ACROCATS BOUNCE INTO BALTIMORE!
At Creative Alliance, domesticated house cats will perform a variety of tricks, including riding skateboards and jumping through hoops, wrapping with a performance from the world’s only all-cat band. Creative Alliance. Times vary. $21-$45.

5/23: BRIGANCE BRIGADE 5.7K CHAMPIONSHIP RACE AND 1.57 MILE FAMILY-FUN RUN/WALK
With May marking ALS Awareness Month, this virtual race and run/walk will benefit the Brigance Brigade Foundation, a local organization seeking to uplift individuals suffering from ALS through funding and resources. Brigance Brigade Foundation. Times vary. $10-35. 

5/25: BLACK WOMEN & NOSTALGIA WITH ALANAH DAVIS AND SHARAYNA CHRISTMAS
Baltimore contributor Alanah Davis and Muse 360 founder Sharayna Christmas will discuss nostalgia as a healing mechanism through readings of poetry, essays, and other works in this virtual event. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 7 p.m.

5/26-6/19: THE MARIN FESTIVAL
This multi-week festival from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will offer outdoor concerts, virtual performances, and a culminating gala to honor Marin Alsop, who has served as the orchestra’s music director for 14 years and will be retiring this year. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Times vary.

TO 5/27: 2021 MARYLAND FILM FESTIVAL
The city’s beloved annual lm festival returns as a virtual event again this year, featuring feature-length and short films across a variety of genres, plus cast and crew Q&As and more. SNF Parkway Virtual Theatre. Times vary. $100-450.

TO 5/30: THE SWINDLERS: A TRUE-ISH TALL TALE
This Center Stage original, directed by Will Davis, focuses on redemption among other familial themes through a road-trip comedy, with playwright Noah Diaz drawing inspiration from his grandfather’s own experiences. Baltimore Center Stage. Times vary. $15-40.

TO 6/12: A RECOLLECTION OF DREAMS
Artists Amina Ross and dana washington-queen explore the Black queer aesthetic through new and existing experiences in this Springsteen Gallery exhibition, which seeks to uncover how intimacy and desire lead to healing. Springsteen Gallery. Fri.-Sat. 12-5 p.m.

TO 6/19: THE COAL SKUTTLE LEGACY
This Motor House exhibition features the work of Baltimore artists who showcase the cultural identity of the city, paying special tribute to the contributions
of emerging Black artists. Motor House Baltimore. Wed.-Fri. 5-8 p.m.

TO 6/26: SPARK IV: A NEW WORLD?
This fourth part of the SPARK pop-up exhibition at Maryland Art Place reflects on 2020, specifically the juxtaposition of the COVID-19 pandemic with concerns over systemic racism and climate change, seeking to uncover how people can adapt to this new reality. Maryland Art Place. Tues.- Sat. 12-4 p.m.

TO 7/10: IF I’M NO LONGER HERE, I WANTED YOU TO KNOW…
Artist Tawny Chatmon will showcase her work in this solo mixed-media exhibit at Galerie Myrtis. Chatmon uses various photographs and acrylic paint on archival pigment print to portray different messages. Galerie Myrtis. Tues.-Sat. 2-6 p.m.

TO 7/18: JANET & WALTER SONDHEIM ARTSCAPE PRIZE FINALISTS
Five Greater Baltimore area artists (Hoesy Corona, Tsedaye Makonnen, Jonathan Monaghan, Lavar Munroe, and Hae Won Sohn) will showcase their work as finalists of the 16th-annual Janet & Walter Sondheim Artscape Prize, a visual art competition that recognizes artists in the community through a $25,000 fellowship. The Walters Art Museum. Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 7/18: NOW IS THE TIME: RECENT ACQUISITIONS TO THE CONTEMPORARY COLLECTION
The BMA’s Contemporary Department showcases a variety of artists’ works in this addition to the collection, which focuses on themes such as American identity and global migration. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 8/1: SHE KNEW WHERE SHE WAS GOING: GEE’S BEND QUILTS AND CIVIL RIGHTS
Despite racial discrimination and limited opportunity, Black craftswomen in Gee’s Bend, Alabama, made quilts for decades out of fabrics and clothes, passing these pieces down each generation. This BMA exhibit explores the work of these quilters and their path to entrepreneurship. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 9/19: LISA YUSKAVAGE: WILDERNESS
Co-organized with the Aspen Art Museum, this new BMA exhibit features more than 15 paintings that show the New York-based artist’s expansive treatment of landscape on large canvases, imagining entire worlds that are both highly detailed and mysterious. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 9/19: SHARON LOCKHART: PERILOUS LIFE
In this BMA exhibition, American artist Sharon Lockhart documents her experiences engaging with children in Poland for a decade through film, photography, and sculpture. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 11/7: TRANSLATIONS AND TRANSITIONS / TRADUCCIONES Y TRANSICIONES: A CELEBRATION OF MEXICAN AND CENTRAL AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE (1821-2021)
In an exploration of Indigenous civilizations making up present-day Mexico and Central America, this Walters exhibition incorporates multiple art mediums, including one of Mexican-American artist René Treviño’s original paintings. The Walters Art Museum. Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 12/20: BALTIMORE FARMERS’ MARKET
The largest producers-only market in Maryland has become a Sunday ritual for thousands of Baltimoreans, bringing in an array of flavors, baked goods, and crafts to enjoy just beneath the Jones Falls Expressway. Sun. 7 a.m.- 12 p.m.

TO FALL 2021: MICA GRAD SHOW 2021
MICA’s annual grad show will virtually highlight the work of more than 150 master’s students across a variety of mediums, from fine art to film and graphic design. Maryland Institute College of Art.

TO 8/2022: THE SCIENCE & MYSTERY OF SLEEP
In AVAM’s third floor gallery, a compilation of all the latest sleep-related scientific research mingles with three artist-made visionary bedrooms, delving into an array of topics such as health and adolescence. American Visionary Art Museum. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$15.95.

Baltimore’s place in American horse-racing history is so cemented that tomorrow’s Preakness Stakes will actually mark the second time the race will be run on Pimlico Race Course’s hoof-trampled dirt oval during a once-in-a-century pandemic.

Things were a little different than they were today. First off, news and the Spanish Flu of 1918 didn’t travel nearly as fast as information and COVID-19 seem to today. As World War I was still being fought—and about two months after reports first surfaced in U.S. newspapers about a flu outbreak at a military base in Kansas—fans were present at Pimlico on May 15, 1918 to watch the 43rd running of the Preakness.

And the race was run on a Wednesday afternoon, which evokes a different impression than the pageantry and excitement of the third Saturday in May that we (usually) see today. Though, like then, this year’s race will be run at an unusual time—at 5:45 p.m. on the first Saturday of October. And it will happen at a largely empty venue void of fans, something we had similarly never imagined.

But here’s the fascinating kicker about the last time the Preakness was run during a global pandemic. Back in 1918, for the first and only time ever, the race was so popular that it was split into two divisions. And because folks back then couldn’t decide one true winner, there were actually two. One was a 3-year-old appropriately named for the time, War Cloud, and the other went by the speed-invoking moniker Jack Hare Jr. To this day, the 1918 Preakness is the only classic race—that’s what the Preakness, Kentucky Derby, and Belmont Stakes were known as before the Triple Crown label was invented—to be so-called, “split.”

It happened because William Riggs, then secretary of the Maryland Jockey Club, hatched a marketing idea to increase the Preakness prize money to attract a strong field after the Kentucky Derby winner from 11 days earlier dropped out. So many horse owners wanted a piece of a then-record $25,000 of prize money (roughly equivalent to $470,000 today), that 26 horses entered. Rather than run them all in one race, officials decided to split the money and the race into two heats.

Today, another marketing genius might come up with a way to determine a Preakness winner in an NCAA basketball-style tournament over a few weeks for television purposes, but back then, two races—and two winners—was evidently a satisfying solution.

The Preakness that year was represented by the fourth and sixth races of a seven-race card at Pimlico. A jockey named Johnny Loftus rode War Cloud to a win in the first division. And Jack Hare Jr. took the second heat in 1 minute, 53.4 seconds—which was 0.2 seconds faster than War Cloud’s time in the earlier race.

That’s just about a photo finish if there was such a thing. If this were happening today, NBC might superimpose each horse into video of a single race—like the Discovery channel did when Michael Phelps took on that shark a few years ago—and show us the real winner in slow-motion to satisfy our curiosity and the betting public. (Or you could enter their data into a computer and run the horses against each other digitally like a Race-Horse Keno game, and crown Jack Hare Jr. the ultimate winner after everyone sees the result.)

But back then, according to a story from horse racing website PastTheWire.com, “Neither A.K. Macomber, owner of War Cloud, nor William Applegate, owner of Jack Hare Jr., could agree who should take temporary possession of the Woodlawn Vase for the year, as was tradition, so the trophy remained in Baltimore.”

At some point, though, a trophy went to the Applegate family (known for its Kentucky-based distillery), as a descendant, Missie Rennie, described in this video a few years ago…

A little more than hundred years later, the Preakness will be run again during a pandemic. It’s grown into an event that attracts tens of thousands of people to Pimlico each year (and thanks to an agreement reached just before the shutdowns in March by the state, city, and the track’s owners, The Stronach Group, one that will continue for years to come). The purse is now $1.5 million.

But tomorrow, there will be no fans. Only the horses, jockeys, trainers, officials and some media will be there. (We’ll be one of them, fortunately.) When track announcer Dave Rodman announced the post positions for the field of 11 horses earlier this week, he did so while wearing a mask, while those pulling the cards were seated nearby—socially distanced. That’s the protocol for race day, too.

The betting machines won’t even be active at the track tomorrow. No Black-Eyed Susans poured either, nor plethora of big hats to be found. In short, there will be no buzz on any part of the property in Northwest Baltimore, be it the grandstand or infield. If you want to bet, you’ve got to do it online. If you want to watch, you have to do it on television or your phone. (To that point, the Stronach Group, the race’s operator, has partnered with The Greene Turtle to host watch parties at their restaurants around Maryland.)

Like people were in 1918, in the early days of what became a years-long pandemic, we’re happy to have a race at all. Sports, even those in which horses are the celebrity participants, are a welcome distraction in times of chaos. That was as true more than 100 years ago as it is today. And this year, only one winning jockey will be handed a big trophy.

Though its future location hangs in the balance, we can definitively say that, for now, the Preakness Stakes are a Baltimore tradition. And local bars, restaurants, and party professionals are celebrating the Charm City spectacle in characteristic style.

From cocktail specials to bus parties and everything in between, here are the best ways to celebrate the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

Support thoroughbred care at Mt. Washington Tavern.
For the sixth year in a row, America’s Best Racing will hold a pre-Preakness party at Mt. Washington Tavern. On Wednesday, May 15, guests can enjoy Triple Crown-themed cocktails, a buffet of bar snacks, and a silent auction all to benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, which awards grants to aftercare organizations around the country.

Sip on a slushie at Wet City.
Our favorite personified frozen drink machine is getting in the Preakness spirit this year at Wet City in Mt. Vernon. Decked out in an eyepatch, Blinky will be churning out frozen Black-Eyed Susan cocktails with rum, vodka, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut. The safest bet of the day? You’ll be wearing the eyepatch after a few of these.

Go downtown for al fresco happy hours.
All week long, Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts will be hosting events to celebrate the lead up to Preakness. There are events for kids, lunchtime markets, and even a fireworks show, but we’re mostly excited for their Monday-Thursday happy hours featuring vendors like Clavel, Charm City Pops, and Connie’s Chicken and Waffles.

Start the pregame party bright and early.
Get into the true infield spirit with tailgate pros Bmore Around Town, which will be hosting pregame parties at Mother’s and Southern Provisions starting at 8 a.m. on Preakness day. Tickets get you an unlimited brunch menu, bus transportation to Pimlico, a commemorative beer mug, and a general admission ticket to the infield. Just remember: pace yourself.

Imbibe a beautiful cocktail at The Elephant.
Now that The Elephant is officially staying open on North Charles Street, celebrate by trying their elegant cocktail Grandma Suzie. This horse-race-inspired drink is made with Hendrick’s gin, Grand Marnier, herbal liqueur, tonic, seasonal fruit, and edible flowers. With its elaborate garnish, it’s kind of like the Preakness hat of cocktails.

Go traditional with a Black-Eyed Susan.
As much as we love creative twists on classics, sometimes you really just want the original. Stop into the Grille at Harryman House for a no-fuss, Black-Eyed Susan made with Bare Knuckle bourbon, vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and sour mix served over crushed ice. It’s the official drink of Preakness for a reason.

Laurie Calhoun is used to multitasking. After all, there are 88 horses to feed and care for, not to mention 36 cats, an always-hungry pig, a mint-eating pygmy goat, and a grumpy donkey. She calls them “the kids.”

On a recent day at Summer Wind Farm in Frederick County, Calhoun, who is quick to baby-talk to her charges, doles out cans of food to several felines in various barns, calls out to “Tunie” the boar, who comes running, or rather waddling, toward her for a handful of grapes, and checks on the many equines she is trying to find homes for. “We could have three times that because of the need,” she says, referring to number of retired racehorses on the farm.

The sleek thoroughbreds, many of them prizewinners, aren’t able to race anymore due to injuries, age, burnout, or other causes. They’re not alone. While the 3-year-old horses who will bound out of the gate at Pimlico Race Course on May 18 for the annual Preakness Stakes are in their prime, they could eventually face the same fate. Most racehorses are finished with their racing careers by the time they’re 6 years old, but they can live until 30. What happens in between?

“They need another job,” says Stacie Clark, operations consultant at the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, an industry-backed group that accredits organizations for the purpose of retraining and rehoming racehorses. “It’s important to realize that horses are versatile.”

They can take on such roles as event horses, hunters, trail horses, polo ponies, or simply become beloved pets. The horses are also welcome ambassadors in therapy groups, where they help military veterans, prisoners, and people with autism. “The thoroughbred has been conditioned to be around people its whole life,” Clark says.

Since 2012, TAA has accredited 70 groups around the country to help retired racehorses find meaningful lives, including several in Maryland. Calhoun’s Foxie G Foundation is one of them.

“They can have second careers,” says Calhoun, who co-founded the rescue operation with her sisters Nicole Ausherman and Kathy Reader in 2012. “They have a phenomenal work ethic.”

“They can have second careers,” says Calhoun. “They have a phenomenal work ethic.”

Calhoun runs Foxie G at Summer Wind Farm, a commercial thoroughbred facility in Union Bridge that she has owned with her husband, Jerry, since 1986. She rehomed horses for 33 years before deciding to turn the farm into a nonprofit. The foundation is named in honor of Foxie G, a winning racehorse Calhoun saved from being euthanized in 1998 after he was diagnosed with laminitis, a painful disease that affects a horse’s foot. “He survived and was a farm mascot for eight years,” she says. He is buried on the farm. He’s just one of many horses she has rescued.

In 2014, Calhoun got a frantic call from a friend. Cool Checkers, an 11-year-old chestnut gelding, was seen on social media in a kill pen. “He was destined to be slaughtered shortly, usually within 48 hours,” Calhoun says. She swung into action to save him.

She knew Cool Checkers well. He was born at Summer Wind Farm and found a new home when he was a yearling. But he never raced, ending up on the auction block years later. Scrambling to get Cool Checkers back, Calhoun found out he had a buddy, Nature’s Fancy, a 10-year-old mare. The frightened horses were seen huddled together, awaiting their fate. “Nobody is helping her,” she was told. “We couldn’t leave her behind,” Calhoun says. “We took her, too.”

Today, both horses are part of a sanctuary program on the farm because of behavioral issues that prevented them from being adopted. “It can traumatize them,” says Calhoun of their near-death experience. They’ll spend the rest of their days well-cared for in a pastoral setting, along with other thoroughbreds, some elderly, like Fireside Brass, 28, a talented racer who fell on hard times when his owner died, and Private Slip, 25, a $607,628 winner on the track who retired at age 11. “Slippie and Brassie are best friends,” says Calhoun. “They bonded. They’re always together.”

Besides the horses on the property, the farm is a veritable Charlotte’s Web of adorable animals, with rescue cats, including Jack O’Lantern and Mayhem; Petunia, or “Tunie,” the sassy pig; Cher, a joyful goat who jumps up to get a closer look at visitors; and Sunny, the grouchy donkey who doesn’t like men. “We have some interesting characters,” Calhoun admits.

They all have captivating backstories, but the star may be Petunia, who was named before Calhoun realized he was a male. He wandered onto the farm one day and started hanging out with the horses after a thoroughbred named Wilbur (“the kindest, gentlest soul on earth,” Calhoun says) encouraged him to come into the barn. “Horses are naturally curious,” she says. “They’re very accepting.” Tunie now has his own nest of hay where he buries himself at night and, during the day, wanders the farm’s 125 acres with a new mission—to lick the horses’ legs and nibble on horse feed that falls on the ground. He has put on weight, especially after being neutered, and gets “healthy snacks” such as grapes, apples, and granola bars without sugar from the human friends who look out for him.

Many of the cats—who were strays, from outdoor colonies, or dumped on the farm’s driveway—are feral and can’t be adopted. They, too, have become part of Foxie G’s sanctuary program, enjoying indoor and outdoor areas where they can play and roam. One barn cat, 17-year-old Heidi, can usually be found on a stack of hay, keeping an eye on the horses.

To prepare the retired racehorses for adoption, Calhoun, with the help of volunteers and a paid staff, gets to know them through a “very stringent process.” “Sometimes it can takes months to have a handle on what type of home they should have,” she says.

The horses are examined by veterinarians, ridden by experienced equestrians, and spend time in the pastures and stalls. When they are deemed ready for the next stage of their lives, Calhoun lists them for adoption on Foxie G Foundation’s Facebook page and other social media sites. She also has a list of people looking for horses. Once a match is found, a prospective owner visits the farm and gets to know the horse. “We want our adopters happy, too,” Calhoun says.

The adoption fee is $500, and there’s a stipulation that the horse can’t be sold. According to the adoption contract, if a horse doesn’t work out, it must be returned to the Foxie G Foundation.

So far, Calhoun has helped about 300 horses transition to other careers. “We’re always trying to add more,” she says. Her efforts are funded through public and private grants, three major fundraising events, and other streams of revenue, such as proceeds donated from the sales of candles and miscellaneous items. A restaurant in Frederick, Dutch’s Daughter, donates the use of its facility for Foxie G benefits.

Calhoun recently allowed one of her horses to go to a prospective buyer on a 30-day trial. “The woman has an older horse with a sore foot. She needs a low-key horse,” Calhoun says. “She retired him and wants him to be happy with his new friend.”

One barn cat, Heidi, can usually be found on a stack of hay, keeping an eye on the horses.

Calhoun is hopeful the pair will work out. The horse she is sending, Dance Circle, was injured and never raced. “It’s a success story,” she says. “Everything was done right.” His owner and trainer placed him in Beyond the Wire, an initiative launched by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, the Maryland Jockey Club, and the Maryland Horse Breeders Association to find placements for retired Maryland-based racehorses. Dance Circle started his rehabilitation there before arriving at Foxie G, which partners with Beyond the Wire.

“Foxie G has offered many of our retiring racehorses a soft landing,” says Jessica Hammond, Beyond the Wire’s program administrator.

“Laurie gives them a safe place to live for retraining and rehabilitation with adoption as the ultimate goal. Her facility is one of the reasons Beyond the Wire is such a successful program.”

Beyond the Wire, which started in 2017, has already placed 170 horses. “Horsemen want to take good care of their horses . . . instead of finding out down the road they went somewhere bad,” she says. “If you want to keep the sport alive, it’s a really important facet of racing.”

To that end, TAA will be a beneficiary of Canter for the Cause on June 2 at Pimlico Race Course. For a fee, participants can bring any breed of horse to the track and follow in the footsteps of previous Preakness winners, including posing for photos in the Winner’s Circle. “People love to ride on the track if they haven’t before,” says Georganne Hale, vice president of racing development for the Maryland Jockey Club.

TAA is also the official charity of the Preakness this year. Members will be on hand at Pimlico, including during Black-Eyed Susan Day on May 17, to provide information and materials about the group’s efforts to assist retired racehorses.

“We have to think beyond the racetrack days and educate people,” Clark says. “We need to be good stewards for the sport and the horses.”

Says Calhoun, “I would love every horse to have their very own person.”

“Do you want me in shoes or boots?” Belinda Stronach asked one of her group’s PR reps before posing for a picture Saturday under cover at Pimlico.

The rain, of course, had soaked the grounds for a few days, and like the rest of those from the announced crowd of 134,487 who ventured to the infield at Preakness, mud now caked her footwear: a pair of tall, blue rubber Hunter boots. 

The 52-year-old president of the company that bears her last name, and the owner of Pimlico (and Laurel Park) race tracks, switched into a pair of heels and stuffed the empty environmentally-friendly storage bag from which they came into one her waterproof shoes, and photographers snapped a few shots.

The rapper, Ne-Yo, appeared beside her, and he lamented about the weather. “You know, though, I was just out in the infield,” Stronach said to him, “and the crowd is insane.” Indeed, around that time, video and pictures surfaced of some brave, and perhaps liquid-courageous, younger folk swan diving into the land of a thousand muddy lakes in front of the main concert stage. They’d shower later.

“It’s unfortunate,” Stronach had said earlier about the sloppy conditions, which figured to play a significant role in ending a four-year stretch of increasing attendance. Although Saturday’s gate, and handle ($93.65 million), were still the third largest numbers in the event’s 143-year history. And that was before an untimely dense fog settled in as the 6:49 p.m. post time of the big race approached. 

If you watched on TV and couldn’t see most the main event until the horses emerged like ghosts of races’ past at the top of the stretch, being there in person didn’t offer a much better view. “I was thinking it’s going to be tough on Larry Collmus, the track announcer,” Bob Baffert, the white-haired winning trainer, said. “I was joking, he’s probably saying, ‘They’re in the backside. I can’t see the horses, but there’s Post Malone,’” referencing the performer on stage in the infield.

So there was mud and fog, yes, but ultimately a big winner, by a head. Justify, the betting favorite ridden by 52-year-old (!) jockey Mike Smith, helped the Preakness do what it does: give the Triple Crown-interested world each spring a shot at seeing another winner in three weeks at the Belmont in New York.

There’s also, of course, that bigger lingering question of how much longer this scene—rain, shine, or otherwise—will unfold at the 148-year-old Pimlico facility, which showed all of its warts, and leaks, Saturday. Stronach Group COO Tim Ritvo addressed the event’s location, long a source of speculation and political maneuvering, in an informal conference in the press box earlier in the afternoon. 

And he basically pushed his ball closer to the group’s goal-line in Laurel, about 30 miles south, a location that’s three times the size of Pimlico that the Stronach Group has spent $30 million on in the last two years alone, and one that has train access to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and more room for parking and other amenities.

As it is, Pimlico is open for racing 12 days a year and needs a major reimagining and investment ($300 million, at least), which won’t come from the Stronach Group, Ritvo said, though he said the group is open to a state of city partnership if they, “feel strong enough and they want to build a facility here.” 

Meanwhile, Laurel is being positioned as a future venue for premier horse racing, like the Breeder’s Cup, and a place the Stronach Group would rather run races year-round to grow its business, with the type of corporate hospitality and facilities it envisions at other tracks in owns in California and Florida. (“What can be done today that will be sustainable for the next 40 or 50 years?” he told us earlier this year.)

“I think change is coming,” Ritvo said Saturday, “and it will be for the better . . . We’ll go to Laurel, and we’re still in the state of Maryland, and we’ll give you a better, more elevated and prestigious experience.”

The second phase of a Maryland Stadium Authority analysis of the topic is expected to be finished by the end of this year. A state law requires the Preakness be held at Pimlico, but legislation can been changed, of course, with the right influence. 

But yesterday, at least, the spectacle felt very much like Baltimore—with plenty of black-eyed Susans (on hats and in cups), overheard chatter about the Orioles’ woes, and the signature “O” being shouted during the National Anthem. It reminded us how surreal it would be to host the Preakness anywhere else.

When crafting the lineup for Preakness InfieldFest each year, Seth Hurwitz is always trying to stay ahead of the curve. The chairman of I.M.P. Productions—which books big-name shows at Merriweather Post Pavilion, 9:30 Club, and The Anthem—has served as the producer of the infield concert since its inception in 2009.

“Our strategy has always been to find each year’s most cutting-edge story just as it’s breaking big,” Hurwitz says, mentioning previous Preakness headliners like Bruno Mars, Pitbull, Lorde, The Chainsmokers, Zac Brown Band, and Maroon 5. “Believe it or not, all the times those acts played, they were just starting to become big stars. And yet, we’ve never been wrong.”

InfieldFest provides the soundtrack for Maryland horse racing’s marquee event, which returns to Pimlico Race Course with a modernized layout and bigger stage this Saturday, May 19. Hurwitz says that he wants attendees to walk away from the event having seen some of the most of-the-moment performers.

“We want people to think of Preakness as where you are going to see the next big thing,” he says. “And have a blast, because that’s the whole other thing—we only pick the fun ones.”

There will certainly be plenty of good times in store for revelers this year as the Infield welcomes rappers Post Malone and 21 Savage, and electronic duo ODESZA—whose latest album A Moment Apart earned the musicians two Grammy nominations last year.

Though ODESZA’s Clayton Knight and Harrison Mills haven’t spent much time in Baltimore in the past, they’re looking forward to being in town for one of the city’s most iconic events.

“The only time we’ve been to Baltimore was in February 2014, when we opened for another artist at Baltimore Soundstage and we were just here for the day,” Mills recalls. “We didn’t get to explore much of the city, which is pretty common on tour, but I remember the audience being really receptive to us. Unfortunately, we won’t have much down time on this visit either, but at least we get to watch the Preakness right after our show.”

The guys recently performed a captivating Sunday-night set at Coachella, and will go on to play other big-name festivals including Lollapalooza, Firefly, and Austin City Limits this summer. But they admit that their Preakness gig will stand out from the rest.

“This was the first time we’d heard of concerts happening in the infield before a race,” Mills says. “We were familiar with Preakness and the Triple Crown, but neither of us have any ties to horse racing, so that world is pretty foreign to us.”

ODESZA’s first Preakness performance comes at a transformative time for the concert, which has downsized this year from two stages to one massive “mega-stage” that measures 120-feet wide and 60-feet tall. The platform will be situated just off of the InfieldFest entrance tunnel and make it so that attendees will have clear views of the races happening around the track.

“We want to ensure that our concert goers can also experience the race,” says Tiffani Steer, vice president of communications and events for The Stronach Group, which owns Pimlico. “We have cleaned up the views to the racetrack, and there are now more designated viewing areas so that you can not only enjoy the concert, but also be connected to the horseracing.”

Additionally, organizers have repositioned the concession stands along the outer edges of the Infield and moved the rows of Porta-Potties that previously blocked sights of the races. There will also be more accessible betting stations scattered throughout the grounds for concert-goers interested in wagering on the thoroughbreds.

“In order to be able to start to connect a new generation to the sport, and continue to modernize and thrive, we have to provide opportunities for people to have fun with great food and beverage and entertainment all day,” Steer says. “That’s really what’s going to round out an ultimate day at the races now.”

Aside from getting a front row seat to the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, ODESZA is most excited about reconnecting with Baltimore crowds.

“Neither of us have been to a horse race, let alone a Triple Crown race, and we’ve only seen the big races on TV,” Knight says. “So that will be a highlight. But we’re most looking forward to performing for our fans in Baltimore—it’s been so long since we’ve played here.”  

Kinetic Sculpture Race 
May 5. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. Sat. 10 a.m. Free. 410-244-1900. Just weeks after learning how to ride a bike at age 4, Eli Hess found himself wearing rubber gloves and goggles, peddling alongside his dad, David, as an official participant in the first Kinetic Sculpture Race. Since then, the Hesses, including David’s now 81-year-old father, George, and the rest of Team PLATYPUS have created and raced 13 human-powered sculptures, including a 25-foot-tall rocket and a cold-cut sub, in AVAM’s annual 14-mile trek around the city. This year, their team, which stands for Personal Longrange All-Terrain Yacht Proven Unsafe, will ride “the mothership,” through water, mud, and the uphill Linwood Avenue stretch on May 5 in the museum’s 20th anniversary race. “The water separates the adults from the boys,” George says with a laugh. “It’s the rough and tumble world of kinetic sculpture racing.”

Maryland Film Festival 
May 2-6. Parkway Theatre, 5 W. North Ave. Times vary. $11-425. 410-752-8083. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Baltimore’s cinematic celebration, which has hosted thousands of novice moviegoers, flick aficionados, and renowned filmmakers such as John Waters, David Lowery, and Greta Gerwig. This cinephile’s paradise returns with a five-day jubilee of movies—from shorts to full-length narrative features and documentaries—shown throughout the Station North Arts District. In between screenings, attend Q&A sessions with filmmakers, as well as workshops and panel discussions at Red Emma’s.

M3 Rock Festival 
May 4-5. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 5 p.m. $60-850. 410-715-5550. Bust out your leather pants, studded jackets, and big hair—it’s time to party like it’s 1989. Now in its 10th year, this head-banging music festival is a celebration of all things metal, with iconic bands turning back the clock for all generations of devoted fans to rock out together. Spanning two days and two stages, catch headliners including Baltimore’s own Kix and crowd favorites Tom Keifer, Ace Frehley, and Night Ranger.

FlowerMart 
May 4-5. Mount Vernon Square, 699 Washington Pl. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 410-274-5353. Nothing says springtime in Baltimore quite like seeing the square around the Washington Monument filled with flowers, colorful hats, and classic lemon peppermint sticks. For the 107th year, Mount Vernon’s beloved celebration kicks off the spring season with arts and crafts vendors, live music and entertainment, and plenty
of festival eats. Stroll through the neighborhood to pick out the perfect plant or join in the maypole dance.

Wham City Comedy 
May 9. Metro Gallery, 1700 N. Charles St. 8 p.m. $10. 410-244-0899. Baltimore’s favorite band of merry misfits is bringing its offbeat brand of comedy back to the Station North neighborhood that started it all.
On the final stop of their spring tour, catch Wham City Comedy’s viral, volatile performance art, as seen on Adult Swim and Comedy Central. Fingers crossed that they perform their hilarious eight-part live series, The Cry of Mann.

The Catonsville Nine, 50 Years Later 
May 12-31. Maryland Historical Society, 201 W. Monument St. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free. 410-685-3750. The Maryland Historical Society is commemorating the Catonsville Nine, a group of Catholic men and women who, 50 years ago this month, burned nearly 400 A-1 draft records to protest the Vietnam War. Featuring artwork by Tom Lewis, who was a member, and additional photographs and materials from the period, the exhibit examines the group’s motivations amid the political chaos and conflict of the late 1960s.

Preakness 
May 19. Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Ave. 8 a.m. $40-720. 410-542-9400. Every year, horse-racing (and day-drinking) fans from near and far come to cheer on the country’s finest thoroughbred horses as they compete for the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Before heading to your seat for this 143rd event, partake in pre-race festivities throughout the city, or hear chart-topping rappers
Post Malone and 21 Savage take over the raucous Infield Fest. 

Brew At The Zoo 
May 26-27. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1 Safari Pl. 1-7 p.m. $25-75. 410-396-7102. Tap into your wild side at The Maryland Zoo’s 17th annual fundraiser with beers from more than 80 breweries, including local suds from DuClaw Brewing and The Brewer’s Art. In between refilling your glass and gushing over the zoo’s newborn African penguins, listen to live music by local rockers Nelly’s Echo and The Kelly Bell Band and sample snacks from dozens of food vendors. 

Maggie Rogers 
May 30. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7 p.m. $30-35. 410-244-0057. Since skyrocketing to internet stardom after a video with Pharrell Williams (gushing over her now-hit song “Alaska”) went viral, this Maryland native has signed a record deal, toured the globe, and released her first EP, Now That the Light Is Fading. For one night only, the singer-songwriter brings her earthy rhythms and soulful sound to her home state for a must-see performance.

Saturday night is Showtime.
West Baltimore’s Gervonta “Tank” Davis won the 130-pound world title in January at Brooklyn’s Barclay’s Center in one of the most exciting bouts of the year, finishing off Jose Pedraza with a thrilling seventh round KO. This weekend, the charismatic fighter travels to London for the first defense of his crown against No. 1 challenger Liam Walsh. We can’t wait for Davis fill Royal Farms Arena at some point in the future, but for now we will catch the action on Showtime, scheduled for Saturday at 6 p.m.

Explained: How the O’s do it.
FiveThirtyEight, the popular politics, sports, science and health, economic and culture blog for numbers nerds, recently dedicated a post attempting to uncover how our beloved Orioles keep beating the experts gloom and doom predictions of failure each season. As baseball columnist Neil Paine notes the O’s have far exceeded the expectations of forecasters over the past half-dozen seasons, by as much as 21, 16, and 12 games in recent seasons. What did he find? Buck Showalter, basically. And the O’s bullpen, which, of course, he reveals has been wonderfully managed by Buck. It’s a case of researchers collecting the data on what every O’s fans already knows based on our own subjective observations. We do appreciate the effort.

Boys’ Latin Tops St. Paul’s in 100th regular season match.
Talk about historic rivalries. Perennial Baltimore lacrosse powerhouses Boys’ Latin and St. Paul’s met for the 100th time this week and the occasion lived up to its billing, with Boys’ Latin rallying from a 3-0 deficit, and then holding on to win a 10-9 nail biter. The win pushed Boys’ Latin overall margin in the series to 52-47-1, according to reporting by the The Sun’s longtime high school sportswriter, Glenn Graham, in a rivalry that began in 1933.

There is a little horse race in Baltimore this weekend. 
This is setting up as a nice duel between Derby-winner and odds-on favorite Always Dreaming in the No. 4 position and Classic Empire, at 3-1 bet, in next to him in the starting gate at No. 5. Goes without saying that Preakness is not to be missed, but especially this year.

O’s catchers deliver more than flowers for Mom.
Oriole catcher Francisco Peña, before a rare start Mother’s Day weekend, promised he’d hit a home run for his mom. And he did better than that—blasting two round-trippers. Which means the bar has been set awfully high for every ballplayer ever going forward. That said, O’s catcher Caleb Joseph went deep the following day, on the actual Mother’s Day, as did Chris Davis. Not bad a compliment to the usual flowers, candy, and card.

Despite shade from D.C., Orioles win series against Nats.

We’re a pretty positive bunch here at Baltimore magazine. It takes a lot to ruffle our feathers. But when people start talking smack about our city, we want to snap a bat over our leg Chris Davis style.

Earlier this week, The Washington Post reported that 106.7 The Fan, the flagship radio station of the Nationals, was airing a 45-second promo spot with some aggressive shade thrown Baltimore’s way:

This week two of the hottest teams in baseball meet in the Beltway Series. First, the Nats travel to Baltimore to face Manny Machado and the Orioles. Side note: Natty Boh is brewed in Georgia, and 50 percent of crabs served in Maryland are actually from Japan. Then, Baltimore brings its massive inferiority complex to D.C., a city with more jobs, a lower crime rate and a better baseball team. Hear it all on your flagship home of the Washington Nationals, Sports Radio 106.7 The Fan.

First of all, the harsh tone seems odd for a radio ad, especially for two teams in different leagues and who have had a fairly friendly relationship since the Nats sauntered down form Canada in 2005. Were they feeling left out of all of the Orioles-Red Sox press?

Secondly, we agree about Natty Boh. It’s not a local beer. But don’t act like that is all we drink here in Baltimore. Just like D.C., we have an awesome and ever-growing craft beer scene with a ton of (actually) local beer options in Camden Yards. Also, that crab stat is just totally bogus. If you can read, it’s extremely easy to find domestic crab options in season. We at the magazine happen to do it every July.

Then things take a really ugly turn when they bring up our alleged “massive inferiority complex” (an ironic mid-rant jab), crime rate, and job market. Talk about low blows.

But then it all comes to a head in the ad’s concluding point when they just flat out state an alternative fact—looks like the White House is rubbing off. Better baseball team? The Orioles have a 2017 record of 22-12 (a 66.7 winning percentage) while the Nats have a record 22-11 (64.7). What’s more, the O’s have won the season series going back six years now and have a 19-8 record during that span—thanks in part to the two out of three that Baltimore took from D.C. in this week’s abbreviated series.

So, yeah, you may have Wieters, but your insult game is weak.

Plus, Metallica likes us!
Legendary metal band Metallica kicked off its World Wired tour at M&T Bank Stadium on Wednesday night and, from all accounts, it seemed like an awesome show. Before they headed out of town, though, they put together a nice tourism package for the city of Baltimore. We’ll take it!

Horses begin to arrive at Preakness.
Though Metallica’s video heavily focused on our sports teams and stadiums, they didn’t happen to mention another Baltimore bragging right. We host the middle jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown, and preparations for the 142nd Preakness Stakes are well underway.

Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming arrived at Pimlico Race Course on Thursday morning and took an early 6 a.m. gallop. “It was kind of what we were looking for—a tranquil, quiet setting,” trainer Todd Pletcher told The Sun. “Also, I don’t have much else to do. I can’t sleep, so we’ve got to get going.” 

Pletcher has had a storied horse-racing career, but Preakness is the only Triple Crown leg he hasn’t yet won. He admits he’s going into the May 20 race more hopeful than ever. “Our confidence level was probably the highest it has ever been in any single horse we brought to it,” he said. “I think just by his physical makeup, he’s a horse that can continue to get better than he already is.”

Ray Lewis’ son transferring to Maryland.
Utah State wide receiver Rayshad Lewis, who happens to have a fairly famous Baltimore dad, announced on Monday that he is transferring to Maryland.

“I just felt at home and very comfortable with the coaching staff, the offense, and how I would fit in,” Lewis told the Orlando Sentinel. In his freshman year at Utah State, he earned 40 receptions and two touchdowns for 476 yards, and should only add to the already talented Terps football team. Due to NCAA rules, Lewis will sit out the 2017 season, play in 2018, and have three years of eligibility.

Though Lewis is a Florida native, there’s obviously a hometown familiarity with his dad, Ray, spending 17 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and his brother, Keon Lattimore, playing for the Maryland in the mid-2000s.

Melvin Mora becomes a U.S. citizen.

On Wednesday, along with 59 other new Americans, longtime Orioles infielder Melvin Mora became a U.S. citizen. Originally from Venezuela, Mora played for the O’s for nine years and still holds the team’s single-season highest batting average (.340). But becoming a U.S. citizen with his wife, Gisel, in front of their six children (including five quintuplets!) was a lifelong dream. 

“This is the time to do it. It’s the right time,” Mora said, according to Press Box. “I was busy with the season. I should have done it a long time ago. My kids were always fighting with me to try and do it.”

Mora became emotional when three of his children led the room in the Pledge of Allegiance and credited his children with helping him study for the citizenship test.

“I was like, ‘What am I doing?’ I’ve been playing in front of all those fans, and now I’m shaking,” he said. “This is something different.”

Kinetic Sculpture Race
May 6. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 10 a.m. Free. 410-244-1900. The American Visionary Art Museum’s wonderfully wacky Kinetic Sculpture Race returns for the 19th time this month. Across 14 miles from Federal Hill to Canton and back, contestants compete on handmade, human-powered works of art that navigate over land, mud, and water to win awards such as “Worst Honorable Mention” and “Next to Last.” Watch the awesomely awkward spectacle from sidewalks across the city.

Maryland Film Festival
May 3-7. Parkway Theatre, 5 W. North Ave. Times vary. $10-400. 410-752-8083. It’s lights, camera, action as the Maryland Film Festival kicks off with an unveiling of the newly renovated Parkway Theatre in Station North. Renowned across the country, this five-day fete features more than 100 films from around the globe and right here in town.

FlowerMart 2017
May 5-6. Mount Vernon Square, 699 Washington Pl. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. 410-274-5353. For the 106th year, the square around the Washington Monument will bloom with flowers, festivities, and festival food, like the classic lemon stick. Join in the Maypole dance, follow the floral pet parade, and purchase some petunias to brighten up your home.

The XX
May 6. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 7 p.m. $40-55. 410-715-5550. In 2009, The xx seemingly came out of nowhere, their sultry minimalist pop snaking its way onto our playlists and earning endless buzz (including a spot on Rolling Stone’s roundup of best debut albums of all time). Eight years later, there’s still an air of mystery about the English trio. On their third album, I See You, the group’s cool, calm, atmospheric sound has unexpectedly evolved into something richer, brighter, even dance worthy––and it works. Listen to their new single, “On Hold,” and prepare to be enchanted at Merriweather at the start of the month. 

Ryan Adams
May 12. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 7:30 p.m. $40-55. 410-715-5550. Ryan Adams may have won us over in decades past with albums like Heartbreaker and Love Is Hell, but if last year’s 1989 Taylor Swift cover album is any indication, the alt-rocker has still got it. Catch his heartfelt, angst-riddled sound this month at Merriweather with new songs from his latest, Prisoner, hopefully a few oldies (like “Hallelujah” and “New York, New York”), and opening act Jenny Lewis.

Jazz
May 19-June 25. Baltimore Center Stage, 700 N. Calvert St. Tue.-Wed. 8 p.m., Thu. 7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 & 7:30 p.m. $20-69. 410-332-0033. Set in 1920s Harlem, this world-premiere play—based on the novel by Pulitzer and Nobel prize-winning author Toni Morrison––embodies the essence of its musical title. The story skits and scats as it follows Joe and Violet, in love and living in their new city, New York. Naturally, their paths take on different rhythms––at times slow and steady, at others hot and fast and unexpected. Adapted by New York-based playwright Nambi Evelyn Kelley and directed by Center Stage’s inimitable artistic director Kwame Kwei-Armah, this dissection of the jazz experience––and the human experience––is a performance not to miss.

Preakness Stakes
May 20. Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Ave. Doors open at 8 a.m. Rain or shine, racing fans will gather for the 142nd time to cheer on this second jewel of the Triple Crown. Partake in the tradition as part of the ever-raucous InfieldFest (which this year features country star Sam Hunt, rising country duo LoCash, and Waldorf’s own pop-punk favorites Good Charlotte) or during one of many events leading up to the big day. Above all, revel in the chance to see America’s next great horse racing champion.

Bon Iver
May 24. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 8 p.m. $46-76. 410-715-5550. It’s been nearly 10 years since Bon Iver strummed onto the scene and stirred our souls with the wistful ballads of his debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago. With each earthy melody, Iver, aka singer-songwriter Justin Vernon, created a brand new kind of indie folk, conjuring up images of pastoral love, dreary countrysides, and introspective men wearing flannel and beards. His full-length follow-up was equally ambitious, and now he returns to showcase his much-anticipated third album, 22, A Million. A breathtaking feat, it’s more experimental than his previous works, but even with the electronic influence, Iver finds a familiar, yet completely new, way to pull our heartstrings.

Brew at the Zoo
May 27-28. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1 Safari Pl. 1-7 p.m. $25-75. 410-396-7102. Grab a cold one and make some furry friends this Memorial Day weekend during the zoo’s 16th annual day-drink with the animals. Sample sips from more than 80 breweries (including homegrown favorites like Flying Dog and The Brewer’s Art), listen to live music (with local talent like The Kelly Bell Band), and enjoy all-day admission for peeks at the penguins or a visit with Willow, the new baby giraffe.

Maryland is a horse lover’s mecca and has been a fixture in American horse racing for hundreds of years. Think wild ponies on Assateague Island and first-rate thoroughbreds from farms across the state (including world-famous horses Secretariat, Seabiscuit, and War Admiral). As the season gears up, get dressed up and head down to the legendary tracks to see new champions crowned in this timeless sport.

4/15: MY LADY’S MANOR STEEPLECHASE
Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dive into Maryland’s rich riding history with the first steeplechase of the season.

4/18: FAIR HILL POINT-TO-POINT
Fair Hill Nature Center, Elkton. 11:15 a.m. This spring tradition takes up-and-coming jockeys over fences across the Maryland countryside to work their way up the equestrian ranks.

4/22: GRAND NATIONAL STEEPLECHASE
Grand National Steeplechase, Butler. 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Bring your binoculars to watch riders jump fences and cross fields during this fast-paced, 115th annual race in Baltimore County.

4/29: MARYLAND HUNT CUP
Worthington Farms, Reisterstown. 11 a.m. For the 121st year, tailgate, picnic, and watch as top equestrians complete the four-mile, 22-fence course.

4/30: MARYLAND JUNIOR HUNT CUP
Shawan Downs, Cockeysville. 11 a.m. During this event for kids and young adults, aspiring equestrians compete on pony-back.

5/19: BLACK-EYED SUSAN DAY
Pimlico Race Course. 8 a.m. Since 1919, 3-year-old fillies have run this mile and one-eighth race the Friday before every Preakness.

5/20: PREAKNESS
Pimlico Race Course. 8 a.m. Don’t miss Maryland’s most beloved equestrian event during this second race of the Triple Crown, now in its 142nd year at Pimlico.

Yalumba “Y Series” Shiraz Viognier 2014, $10, Bacchus Importers Ltd.

The horse featured on the label pays tribute to the animals that pulled the plows and hauled the harvest for generations of grape growers.

The wine is as exuberant and hot to trot as the illustration, with brilliant red fruit and floral aromas, jammy flavors, and a slightly spicy finish. This is the wine for outdoor gatherings, cookouts, and casual food. You could even dunk it in that cooler full of beer and ice for a few minutes if the day is getting warm.

Union Craft Brewing Anthem Golden Ale
$10 for a six-pack, Legends

Speaking of beer, no summer party can go without some icy cold ones. And thanks to the resurgence of great beer brewed right here in Charm City, Anthem is a winner.

Conceived as an homage to the penning of “The Star-Spangled Banner” in Baltimore’s harbor more than 200 years ago, this is a Baltimore beer for a Baltimore race. It’s a lighter, thirst-quenching style akin to a cream ale, and at 5 percent ABV, it isn’t going to send you to the hammock before the race is run.

Smooth Ambler Old Scout Straight Bourbon Whiskey
$40, The Country Vintner

This bourbon is aged for at least seven years and has a high rye content of 36 percent. At 99 proof, this draft horse of a whiskey needs water to help it amble smoothly, either over ice or in a cocktail. What better cocktail to try it in than the Derby drink, a mint julep?

Recipe: Mint Julep

• 10-12 mint leaves
• 2.5 ounces bourbon
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup

Gently rub the mint leaves along the side of the cup. Add bourbon. Fill with crushed ice. Garnish with mint springs and drizzle the simple syrup to taste.

After inhaling some free Kind bars and juice—Pimlico wisely assumes you probably haven’t had time to eat breakfast yet—we set off in our group with Anita, a 25-year veteran of the Maryland horse racing industry, leading the way. We started inside the empty grandstand, the shades drawn on the betting windows, the linoleum floors gleaming under the pallid light. Overall, it felt like being in a high school cafeteria after hours, eerily peaceful and sterilely atmospheric. Of course, Pimlico’s aging facilities have long been a source of frustration for racing officials, who say they need to offer more VIP accommodations if they are to keep the race economically viable. Though it may not happen soon, Pimlico will hopefully see some sort renovation in the future. That’s probably for the greater good, but there is something appealingly barebones—and so very, very Baltimore—about the spartan facilities as they stand now—an almost defiant unfussiness that we’d miss, even as we’d rejoice at the prospect of reliably functioning restrooms.

The first stop on our tour was a chat with Bobby, a former jockey who displayed equipment ranging from feather-light silks to a racing saddle that was about as substantial as a leather belt. He regaled us with tidbits about jockey life (“I now have an office in the corner there with a desk and a phone. It’s a lot safer.”), showed us the vests jockeys wear to prevent cracked ribs in the event they get trampled, and passed out pairs of goggles to the kids in the group. (Jockeys often wear goggles to keep the dirt out of their faces.)

Then it was outside to the four “back lot” barns, including the Preakness Barn” from which Exaggerator emerged, all tacked up and heading to the track for his exercise. We watched forlornly as he disappeared in the other direction but perked up when we spied Satire, Nyquist’s “lead pony,” who travels and works out alongside him, providing stability and companionship. Satire, a former racehorse himself, was getting hosed down after the morning’s workout and his handler took some time to answer our questions about the horses’ bond.

“Would Nyquist notice if Satire wasn’t there with him?” we wondered.

“Oh, yeah,” came the emphatic reply.

So racehorses have besties, too.

After that, it was around the corner for a visit with Mike, the state blacksmith, who handles shoeing needs at Pimlico. He showed the various types of horseshoes one can attach to a hoof and then demonstrated the size difference between a racehorse shoe and a draft horse shoe—it’s a big one!

Speaking of draft horses, our next stop was the stalls of the Budweiser Clydesdales who are scheduled to appear at Preakness. Well, to be accurate, some of the Budweiser Clydesdales are in town. As we learned, Budweiser maintains several teams, plus a few horses who stay at the company’s farms in Missouri and are taught special tricks for commercial and film appearances. Other trivia: Clydesdales weigh about 2,000 pounds and ingest about 30 gallons of water, 50 pounds of hay, and two to five quarts of feed per day.

Once we finished gawking at the Clydesdales, we were lead into another of the “back lot” barns, this one housing racehorses that make up what Anita called, “the bread and butter of Maryland horse racing.” In other words, you’ll probably never know their names, but they’re out there all the same, winning low-level stakes races and keeping the gears turning in Maryland’s storied thoroughbred racing industry. A jockey named Marco allowed the kids in the group to feed peppermints to a dark bay colt named Grandiflora and a pretty chestnut filly named Sazerac Girl and then we departed, heading back to the grandstand.

Back inside and out of the rain that was now gently but steadily falling, we visited the jockey’s locker room and lounge where we saw racks upon racks of brightly colored racing silks, a scale for weighing in before the race (horses are assigned a weight limit and jockeys can not exceed it), and a and ping-pong table for blowing off steam.

Then it was down to the paddock with its cushioned flooring and open stalls, where the horses wait before being called onto the track. “A hothouse environment,” is how Anita described the space on race days. “Having done this, I can tell you that it’s pretty nerve-wracking to be in here with a dancing 1,000-pound animal on the end of a shank,” she noted.

Out of the paddock, we retraced our steps through the still empty grandstand back out to the apron overlooking the track where horses were still being exercised in the steady drizzle. In all, the tour took a little over an hour, though Anita said she usually does it faster.

“I was talking a lot today,” she said apologetically.

“No, don’t apologize,” said one older man with our group. “I didn’t think we’d get to see this much!”

Sunrise at Old Hilltop tours are available from 6 a.m.-9 a.m. through Friday. The last tour departs at 8:45 a.m. Tours are free and on a first come, first served basis. Reservations are not accepted. More information is available on the official Preakness site.

The Grandstand

When prepping your look for the grandstand, just remember two things: bright colors and big hats. You can’t go wrong with a fun floral print cocktail dress and a nice pair of nude heels. Keep in mind you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking so choose your most comfortable pair. A hat is not a must but it’s a great excuse to wear a not-so-common statement piece. Here’s what we picked:

Milly Chloe V-neck dress ($375) at Sassanova. C.C. Exclusives Spring Derby hat ($65) at Sassanova. Kendra Scott Harlow necklace ($195) at Punch. Michael Kors straw clutch ($195) at Handbags in the City. Loeffler Randall Piper Wheat wedges ($350) at Sassanova.

The Infield

Think cute and comfortable when it comes to dressing for the infield. Try to choose a flat shoes, or if you are leaning toward a heel, go with a wedge—the grass is not a great place for stilettos. Just because you’re not in the grandstand doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit. A patterned romper or sundress is perfect paired with a crossbody bag for this all-day event. Here is what we picked:

Abbeline patterned romper ($98) at South Moon Under. Spitfire Teddy Boy #2 sunglasses ($39) at Brightside. Street Level crossbody bag ($48) at Brightside. Leaf Scoop Pendant necklace ($16) at Punch. Converse low-tops ($55) at South Moon Under.

Horse racing has always been a beloved custom and cause for celebration in the Land of Pleasant Living. For the 141st year, partake in the local tradition that is Preakness, which is back and better than ever, riding off the high of last year’s American Pharaoh sweep.

PREAKNESS PREGAMES:

Ryleigh’s Oyster Third Annual Triple Crown Series
May 7, 21, June 11: The county location of Ryleigh’s Oyster is transforming into a race party headquarters this season. With events planned for each jewel of the Triple Crown, the bar is going all out with classic cocktails, hat contests, and specialty snacks like biscuits with ham and pimento jelly, spiced peanuts, and fried green tomatoes. During the Preakness party on May 21, dress to the nines, sip Sagamore Spirit Crushes, and enjoy the sounds of country rocker Jenny Leigh during a special post-race performance. 22 W. Padonia Road, Lutherville-Timonium, 410-539-2093

Third Annual America’s Best Racing Pre-Preakness Party
May 18: Rub elbows with jockeys, sip Black-Eyed Susan cocktails, and enter to win swag like Preakness tickets and signed racing memorabilia at this pre-party to benefit the Thoroughbred Aftercare Allegiance. Mt. Washington Tavern, 5700 Newbury St., Free, 7-10 p.m., 410-367-6903

Turf Valley’s Preakness Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival
May 19-21: Gather the family and head to Ellicott City to take in the sights and sounds of this annual fete, which offers everything from arts and crafts and food truck fare to tethered flights and grounded hot air balloon walk-throughs. Guests are also invited to watch 25 illuminated balloons light up the skyline to the beat of choreographed music during nightly glow-in-the-dark shows. Turf Valley, 2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, Free admission, 410-465-1500

BMore Around Town Pre-Preakness Party Packages
May 21: If you’re worried about parking and Uber surge-pricing on Preakness day, the tailgating experts at Bmore Around Town have got you covered. Round-trip transportation with beer on the bus and pregame brunch specials are highlights of this all-inclusive package offered at Mother’s Grille in Federal Hill and Claddagh Pub in Canton. 1113 S. Charles St. and 2918 O’Donnell St, $45

Shade 2016
May 21: Don your best spring formal attire and trot over to Port Discovery for this horse-themed charity event that features food and drink specials and music spun by DJ Candy D. All proceeds benefit Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake’s Hire One Youth initiative. Port Discovery, 35 Market Place, 8 p.m., $50-100.

Preakness Party Package at Mad River
May 21: This Federal Hill favorite is offering an all-inclusive party package for Preakness, which will include a breakfast buffet, bus transportation, one all-you-can-drink MUG Club ticket to Infieldfest, and open-bar access upon return. 1110 S. Charles St., 410-727-4333

Hats & Horses: An Evening at the Races
May 23: Bowties and big hats will be plentiful at this jockey-themed function featuring gourmet eats from the likes of Baldwin’s Station, Classic Catering, and La Scala, to benefit Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland. The Grand Lodge, 304 International Circle, Cockeysville, 5:30 p.m., 443-573-0945, $150

RACE-SEASON SIPS:

The Tavern Derby at Mt. Washington Tavern
In honor of horse-racing season, this neighborhood bar is rolling out a new collection of cocktails. The Preakness-inspired menu features the tavern’s takes on classic hunt club drinks such as the “Tavern Susan,” the “Tavern Belmont,” and the “Tavern Julep,” made with mint, simple syrup, Bullet rye, and club soda. All drinks are served in a commemorative, take-home glass. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903

Polo Bar at Hunt Valley Inn
Despite a recent $15 million renovation, The Hunt Valley Inn’s equestrian roots have been maintained through its updated horse-country decor. Snag a seat at the hotel’s Polo Bar to sample specialty cocktails and small plates featured on a “Triple Crown” menu this season. Offerings include mint juleps, Black-Eyed Susans, and Belmont Breezes, as well as bites like ham and manchego crostini, spicy chicken skewers, and stuffed jalapeños.Other race-inspired options include Oaks Lily (Stoli vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and simple syrup) and Down the Stretch (Grey Goose, blue curacao, grenadine and lemon-lime soda).245 Shawan Road, Hunt Valley, 410-785-7000

Preakness-Inspired Cocktails at Colette
Bar manager Crystal Wack has added a slew of classic cocktails to the menu at this Station North newbie in honor of Preakness. Order traditional mint juleps, Black Eyed Susans, and Belmont Breezes, or try the new “Sir Barton” cocktail, which is Wack’s take on the classic Southside. 1709 N. Charles St., 443-835-2945

PIMLICO PARTIES:

Sunrise at Old Hilltop
May 17-20: Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the Preakness contenders’ morning workout, with a tour of the barn and view of the sunrise. Pimlico Grandstand. 6-9 a.m.

Preakness Post-Position Draw
May 18: Officials will pull starting positions for the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, which also will be streamed live online. Pimlico Sports Palace. 5 p.m.

Preakness Alibi Breakfast
May 19: Join trainers, owners, and jockeys for breakfast as they tell fans and the media what it takes to make it to Preakness and possibly become a racing legend. Pimlico Race Course. 9:30 a.m.

Jockey Autograph Session
May 20: Fans will have the chance to meet their favorite riders before their big race on Saturday. Pimlico Grandstand. 10-11 a.m.

Black-Eyed Susan Day
May 20: The day before the mane (ahem) event, watch this historic filly race, enjoy an infield concert, sip Black-Eyed Susan cocktails, and attend a women’s networking lunch, all to benefit Susan G. Komen Maryland and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Pimlico Race Course. 11:30 a.m.

Budweiser Infieldfest
May 21: Don’t miss the party of the year, with big-name musical acts like rapper Fetty Wap (of “Trap Queen” fame), electronic duo The Chainsmokers (remember that “#Selfie” song?), and Towson’s own All Time Low. Pimlico Race Course. Doors open at 8 a.m.

141st Preakness Stakes
May 21: The big day has finally arrived: the 141st Preakness Stakes! Fourteen of the nation’s best jockeys and horses compete to win the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Pimlico Race Course. Doors open at 8 a.m. Race begins at 6:18 p.m.

“Sagamore’s spring water is iron free and fed from a limestone aquifer,” Treacy explained. “Limestone water is traditionally the best, and purest, way to make a rye whiskey.”

Once that process is complete, the whiskey is hand bottled and labeled and, recently, that has meant that family and neighbors of Sagamore staff have been coming in to help during the homestretch before bottles hit shelves on May 13.

As for the rye whiskey itself, it’s made up of two different mash bills (one with high rye and one with low), so the final product is a fine balance of spicy and sweet. The rye is a lot smoother than many small-batch whiskies on the market with dominant flavor notes of molasses and caramel. The spirit reminded us of a lower-proof Knob Creek rye, and would be ideal in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan cocktail.

“Expect our product to be in some of the best bars and restaurants around town,” Treacy said. “We’re aiming to end up in the places with craftier cocktail programs.”

Launch party plans are in the works and will be posted on Sagamore’s social media platforms once they’re firmed up. Not surprisingly, one place you’ll be guaranteed to find Sagamore rye? At the 141st Preakness Stakes on May 21.

“All of these ventures have one thing in common,” Treacy said of Plank Industries. “And that’s celebrating the unique heritage and history of Maryland.”

141st Preakness Stakes
May 21. Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Ave. Doors open at 8 a.m. Race begins at 6:18 p.m. As the second jewel in thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes is where champions either emerge or collapse. Over the race’s 141 years, many favorites have come to Pimlico Race Course, only to find their dreams dashed a mile and three-sixteenths later. But then there are moments like last year, when American Pharoah—on his way to becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years—went wire-to-wire on a sloppy, rain-soaked track to remind us why horse racing is The Sport of Kings. This year’s race will see another promising field compete for a place in racing history. But even if the Preakness doesn’t offer the drama of American Pharoah’s run, there will be plenty to enjoy, including 10 other races and the annual InfieldFest, headlined this year by DJ duo The Chainsmokers, hip-hop chart-topper Fetty Wap, and Towson’s own pop-punkers All Time Low.—Amy Mulvihill

Santigold
May 4. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $28-30. 410-244-0057. Santigold made her mark on the music scene in 2008 with a debut album of instant, indie-hip-hop hits like “L.E.S. Artistes” and “You’ll Find A Way.” Four years later, her much-anticipated second record was another success, with tracks like “Disparate Youth” and “GO!,” and now her third release is just as addictive. On 99 Cents, she still maintains her trademark balance between being contemplative and playful. You’ll be hooked to songs like “Can’t Get Enough Of Myself” and “Banshee” in no time.

Maryland Film Festival
May 4-8. Locations & times vary. $12-375. 410-752-8083. Now in its 18th year, the Maryland Film Festival returns with more than 100 films—from full-length features to documentaries and shorts—all shown in and around Station North. While the festival prides itself on bringing together filmmakers from across the globe, it still stays connected to its Maryland roots, highlighting local talent alongside internationally known directors. And, of course, there’s always the special feature selected by our own accomplished auteur John Waters.

FlowerMart
May 6-7. Mt. Vernon Place, 699 Washington Pl. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 410-274-5353. Over the past 105 years, FlowerMart has blossomed from a one-day flower festival into a weekend event full of flora, food, art, and entertainment. Walk through the Mt. Vernon squares to buy spring flowers, suck on lemon-peppermint sticks, and admire the recent renovation of the Washington Monument. For the first time ever, FlowerMart also will donate a portion of its proceeds to two local nonprofits: House of Ruth Maryland and the Mt. Vernon Place Conservancy.—JKC

Kinetic Sculpture Race
May 7. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 10 a.m. Free. 410-244-1900. If you’ve been on the lookout for Chessie—a.k.a. the Loch Ness monster of the Chesapeake Bay—this just might be your month. As the 18th annual human-powered sculpture race takes its 14-mile route through the city, the streets will overflow with hordes of handmade creatures inspired by this year’s “myths and monsters” theme. Find a spot at AVAM, Patterson Park, or the Canton waterfront to watch participants compete in this eight-hour event for irreverent prizes, like the “Grand Mediocre Champion” and “Worst Honorable Mention.”

Sweetlife Festival
May 14. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 12 p.m. $100-150. The sustainability-focused festival is back with a full day of food and music in the Merriweather woods. This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix, including Canadian dream-pop artist Grimes, Drake-signed R&B singer PartyNextDoor, English rockers The 1975, and New Wave icon Blondie, as well as grub from regional eateries like Toki Underground and Woodberry Kitchen.

Kenny Chesney
May 19. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 7:30 p.m. $50-692. 410-715-5550. Some dismiss Kenny Chesney’s music with the term “bro-country,” but in the middle of a Baltimore spring, who doesn’t want a night of music inspired by island beaches and football tailgates? For more than two decades, Chesney has kept our attention with love songs, party anthems, and beer-tinged staples, like “Keg in the Closet” and “Summertime.” For one Thursday night, embrace his summertime sound in Columbia.

Courtney Barnett
May 25. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $23-28. 410-244-1131. It was two years ago that this introspective Australian indie-rocker made waves with the release of her double EP, catching our attention halfway across the globe. (We’ll love “Avant Gardener” forever.) By the time she dropped her first full-length debut last spring, we were all ears, and happy to find that the Grammy-nominated singer and solid guitarist continues to stay true to her witty, observational style. See her perform downtown at the end of the month.

Matt Sesow: Shock and Awe
May 27-June 4, 2017. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free-$15.95. 410-244-1900. Opening Memorial Day weekend, this eclectic art exhibit presents works by Matt Sesow—a D.C.-based, self-taught artist—all painted with one hand, due to his left arm being severed by a plane as an 8-year-old in Nebraska. With vibrant color, raw detail, and a unique perspective, the exhibit features more than 150 original artworks, including paintings honoring the first 100 U.S. soldiers killed in the Iraq War, alongside others inspired by fantastical birds and Sesow’s own life.

Brew at the Zoo
May 28-29. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1876 Mansion House Dr. 1-7 p.m. $25-69. 443-552-5276. Conventional wisdom says alcohol and wild animals don’t mix, but at Baltimore’s annual Brew at the Zoo, you can combine them with confidence. For one spring weekend, sample more than 80 local and national beers—including brews from Bmore favorites like The Brewer’s Art and Monument City—and listen to local music by the bluesy Kelly Bell Band and the funky, soulful Bosley. All proceeds benefit the zoo, ensuring that you can continue to visit your animal friends year-round, even after the buzz wears off.