For over a century, the Preakness Stakes has been synonymous with Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore—a tradition so rich that since 1909, an artist has climbed the cupola after each race to paint the weathervane in the winning horse and jockey's colors. But this year, everything changes.

On Saturday, Preakness 151 will run at Laurel Park, marking the first time in 118 years the "Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown" leaves Baltimore. The reason? A massive $400 million renovation at Pimlico, which has already bulldozed most of the historic track. While Pimlico's grandstand won't be ready until next spring, organizers are working hard to preserve the Preakness spirit—even if it means getting creative.

How? A live camera feed from 30 miles away, inside the Park Heights construction zone, will stream the traditional weathervane painting onto Laurel Park's infield big screen. It's a small but powerful nod to the past as the event adapts to its temporary home.

But make no mistake: this Preakness will feel "tremendously different." Attendance is capped at just 4,800—a far cry from the 60,000-plus fans who packed Pimlico last year. With a quarter of Laurel's infield taken up by marshland, there will be no headliner concerts from stars like T-Pain or Jack Harlow. Instead, expect a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.

"It's gonna be really intimate," says Scott Wykoff, longtime WBAL reporter and Alibi Breakfast emcee. "This is gonna be kind of like having Preakness in the park in your neighborhood."

To compensate, organizers have added three luxury tents near the starting line, while the blue-and-white-trimmed grandstand will host most attendees. "Our goal is to create a beautiful space—whether through signage, florals, or hospitality elements," explains Tiffani Steer, 1/ST vice president of communications. "Things that can really bring an elevated feel to this venue."

At Pimlico, the magic came from lively crowds, colorful outfits, and vibrant bouquets. At Laurel Park, the challenge is capturing that same energy on a smaller scale. For horse racing fans and fashion-forward spectators alike, this year's Preakness offers a unique chance to witness history in the making—just don't expect the same party.