Mark your calendars for one of horse racing's most cherished traditions. The 2026 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes is set to light up the track on Friday, May 15, serving as the glamorous prelude to Preakness weekend. This Grade 2 race, now in its 102nd running, brings together the sport's most promising 3-year-old fillies in a thrilling showdown that sets the stage for the main event.
This year's race carries extra significance as the entire Preakness weekend moves to Laurel Park, thanks to Pimlico Race Course's massive $400 million renovation. While the venue has shifted, the magic remains intact. The winner will still be draped in that iconic blanket of yellow flowers, a tradition that has crowned champions for over a century.
Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a casual viewer, here's your complete guide to catching every stride of the action.
How to Watch
Streaming options make it easier than ever to tune in. The Black-Eyed Susan Stakes will be available live on Peacock, giving you front-row access to the race. For those who prefer traditional cable, you can also catch the coverage on NBCSN through YouTube TV. Peacock subscribers will enjoy not just this race, but a wealth of sports content including NFL Sunday Night Football, NBA games, Premier League soccer, and much more.
Schedule and Post Times
The excitement at Laurel Park Race Course kicks off at 4:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 15. The main event, the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, is scheduled for an approximate post time of 6:14 p.m. ET. For those planning a full day of racing, the Preakness Stakes follows on Saturday with a post time around 6:50 p.m. ET.
Don't miss this chance to witness history in the making as these elite fillies compete for glory under the Maryland sun. Whether you're watching from home or gearing up for race day in style, this is a moment every racing enthusiast will want to experience.
