The Friday before the Preakness Stakes is Black-Eyed Susan Day at Pimlico Race Course, and 11 News was there live with a preview of everything you need to know ahead of this weekend’s races.

“It has got to be on your bucket list. It’s awesome. Baltimore’s great. If you love horses, you have to do it,” visitors Sam and Bonnie Mummert said.

The Mummerts are checked off an item on their bucket list by attending Black-Eyed Susan Day. Many are making sure to get to Pimlico Race Course before renovations get underway.

“It’s bittersweet. We’ll miss it, but we’re excited about the future. I was very excited to see in the future renderings, they’re going to pay homage to the old clubhouse, which is very cool,” visitor Pat Sameth said.

“I hope they don’t ruin the charm of Pimlico with the new one. I love this place. I love the age of it,” said visitor Jeff Keller.

The 14-race program on Black-Eyed Susan Day features six stakes — three graded, worth $1 million in purses.

“I won the last race because I just liked the numbers. No rhyme or reason. I’m not that good,” visitor Jason Johnson said.

Everyone is coming up with their own strategy to try and win a dollar.

“Successful trainers make successful horses,” Keller said.

It has long been hailed as “Ladies day out” in Baltimore with extravagant hats and fascinators on full display.

Black-Eyed Susans are always on everything, including the bar, which is serving up a special drink named after the state flower. Another statement accessory this season is thoroughbreds themselves. Some are even dangling from necklaces.

“It’s beautiful. I’m loving seeing all the different hats. We will be back. I know they’re doing the renovation. We’re going to check out Laurel next year and then be back in 2027,” visitor Sheretha Moore said.

“It’s a blast. Everyone should come. It’s a lot of fun. It’s a lot of community. This is Baltimore. I love it. It’s history,” visitor Mary J said.