By Erika Alston Buck
Special to the AFRO
AfroPreak was the sunshine on a cloudy day!
Baltimore’s Black excellence showed up and showed out at the 149th running of Preakness Stakes. Preakness for us, was transformed into the AfroPreak Lounge experience, an event that seamlessly blended culture, style and community. This year’s AfroPreak, held on May 18 at Pimlico Race Course, marked a significant expansion in both guest list and footprint, offering an elevated, elegant, customized infield pavilion opposite Turfside Terrace experience.
Produced by the dynamic duo of events, AfroPreak is the brainchild of LaRian Finney and Derrick Chase. First introduced in 2022 with 300 guests during the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, the event has grown exponentially, with the 2024 edition welcoming 1,000 VIP and premium guests.
AfroPreak provided a vibrant cultural experience featuring diverse food, music and fashion, all set against the iconic backdrop of the American classic horse race.
“The AfroPreak Lounge has grown to be the heart and culture of Preakness,” said Finney. “From starting in 2022 as a concept with 100 guests to 1,200 guests for Preakness 149, it’s clear that this event resonates deeply with our community.”
Among the notable attendees were Ravens players Zay Flowers and Malik Cunningham; Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott; City Council President Nick Mosby; Delegate Malcolm Ruff; members of The Maryland Legislative Black Caucus; Shelonda Stokes, president, Downtown Partnership; and Rachel Graham, CEO, BOPA. Guests enjoyed performances by renowned DJs, including DJ NO ID, DJ BIG L, DJ PDRAMA, and DJ FLOW (Meek Mill’s official DJ). The activation also featured a cigar lounge sponsored by Davidoff and a curated selfie lounge by Finn Design House.
Kevin Lyles, a prominent music executive known for his work with Def Jam Recordings and his role as CEO of 300 Entertainment, led the audience in a call-and-repeat to hip-hop classics, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
“Honored to grow our partnership with Preakness over the past three years,” said Finney. “Our team looks forward to playing an integral role in reimagining Preakness with AfroPreak and intentional community involvement at the center.”
AfroPreak was not just a social event but a celebration of community and culture. Derrick Chase highlighted the broader impact: “AfroPreak celebrates our elegance and stands as the bridge to making Baltimore better.”
This year’s event saw collaboration with 1/ST, allowing 12 African American-owned companies to participate in the Preakness, showcasing local entrepreneurship and talent.
The atmosphere and decor of AfroPreak set a new precedent, combining mid-century modern and bohemian aesthetics to create a welcoming space for everyone. Attendees donned their best Preakness hats and fascinators. Some attendees clearly dug into the back of their closets for signature pieces while many clearly opted for custom-made attire, ensuring that no one came to play. They all stood on Preakness—AfroPreak business.
From beginning to end, AfroPreak was a whole vibe, a testament to the unstoppable dynamic duo of Derrick Chase and LaRian Finney. As AfroPreak continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a shining example of how community-centered events can enrich cultural traditions and foster unity.
AfroPreak truly was sunshine on a cloudy day, proving once again that the convergence of culture, elegance, and community can create an unforgettable experience.