The Preakness: More Than A Horserace

May 17, is the day to get your party on in Baltimore, MD during the 133rd Preakness Stakes. The iconic event is known for the zany infield party where attendees drink and prance about the open space. "The Preakness is a cultural icon in Maryland. Most people are attending for the party," said Jim Trela, sociology and anthropology professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

The Baltimore Sun reports that infield party-goers have coolers brimming with alcohol and the college-aged attendees take part in unofficial events like the porta-potty dash (an event that won't be taking place this year due to a crackdown). 

"My warning is against excess," said Trela, for students who plan on attending the Preakness infield festivities. Trela, who has never attended the Preakness (and doesn't plans to), warns that debauchery involving alcohol and sex is the number one concern he has for his students at the Preakness infield. "No debauchery in the infield," said Trela like a stern, caring adviser.

"I don't fit in," said Trela, when asked why he opts out of the Preakness each year.

Unlike Jim Trela, students will be attending the Preakness this year to do more galloping than the horses.