The Preakness Stakes in Baltimore is about so much more than just a horse race. Preakness Week 2009 begins on May 12 and rolls down the stretch until the race on May 16. Here's your guide to the best events happening around town.
MECU's Pee Wee Preakness
Tuesday May 12, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
Tiny tots bounce their way to the finish line on roly-poly Hippity Hops. The "Mini Preakness" will take place at the Federal Hill Park in downtown Baltimore. For more information call: 877-BALTIMORE
Preakness Frog Hop
Wednesday May 13, 2009 at 12:00 p.m.
Three days before the horses race to the finish, the frogs hop toward it. Held at the War Memorial Plaza in front of City Hall. Admission is free. For more information call: 410-396-9392.
Preakness Crab Derby
Thursday May 14, 2009 at 12:00 p.m.
Local celebrities serve as "jockeys" as crabs shuffle toward the finish line. The winner will receive $500 to be donated to the charity of choice. Held at historic Lexington Market. For more information call: 410-685-6169.
36th Annual Preakness Parade
Friday May 15, 2009 at 8:30 p.m.
The parade will take place on Pratt Street in the heart of the Inner Harbor. Colorful floats, helium-balloon characters, equestrians, marching bands, and military units will all take part. The p begins on Howard and Pratt streets, proceeds down Pratt Street, and ends at Market Place. For more information call: 1-877-BALTIMORE.
Black-Eyed Susan Day
Friday May 15, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
Maryland's second-largest day of racing, featuring the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes - the middle leg of the filly "Triple Crown." For more information: 410-542-9400. Gates open at 10:00 a.m.
