The Maryland Department of Agriculture announced on May 4 that the annual Maryland Horse Farm Tour will take place on Sunday, May 10, as part of the Preakness Festival. The event offers residents and visitors a chance to visit select horse farms across the state and see where champion equestrians are bred and raised.
The tour is free and self-guided but requires advance registration. It will run from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a digital program available that lists participating farms and local agribusinesses nearby. Visitors can observe mares and foals in their natural settings while learning about breeding, care, and training programs involved in producing top racehorses.
According to the official website, the Maryland Department of Agriculture contributes to public welfare by ensuring food safety and supporting local agriculture. The department also promotes agricultural products locally and globally while supporting farmers and educating the public on farming’s economic role, according to its official website. Its operations extend throughout Maryland, providing services such as animal health monitoring, food safety inspections, farmer education, agricultural oversight, and support—all detailed on its official website.
After touring the farms, guests are encouraged to explore other local businesses through “Maryland’s Best,” which highlights farm stands, wineries, and agri-businesses in proximity. The event is presented in partnership with several organizations including the Maryland Horse Breeders Association; Maryland Racing Commission; Rosecroft Raceway; Cloverleaf Standardbred Owner’s Association; Maryland Department of Labor; Maryland Million Ltd.; Maryland Department of Agriculture; and the Maryland Horse Industry Board.
For more information or questions about registration or interviews regarding this event—which reflects both cultural tradition and economic significance—interested parties may contact Anne Litz at [email protected] or (667) 408-0407. The department operates from its headquarters at 50 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis.
