by Jennifer Starr, for The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono

Wilkes-Barre, PA — Before American Pharoah even hits the gate for the 140th Preakness Stakes, the party will be in full swing at the Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono.

The track in Northeast PA will get the celebration underway at 3 p.m., with the party tent, patio bars, and trackside concession stands serving up ice cold beverages. The featured drink will be the Black-Eyed Susan, the official drink of the Preakness Stakes, in the souvenir glass. Johnny Rockets will have delicious grilled burgers and hot dogs available for sale on the track apron as well, and Big Belly’s BBQ food truck will be serving their famous sandwiches and more.

The betting windows will open bright and early at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, with post time for Pimlico at 10:30 a.m. Pacer’s Clubhouse will open at 3 p.m., by reservation only, 570.831.2100. Free admission and free parking are in full effect for that day, as always.

Live harness racing will immediately follow the Preakness Stakes, and there are 14 races on the card, with four divisions of the Pennsylvania Sire Stakes for pacing colts and geldings. Also on the stellar Saturday night card is a $30,000 Open Trot featuring millionaire mares Shake It Cerry, trained by Jimmy Takter, and Classic Martine, trained by Chris Oakes; and the $30,000 Open Pace with the Rene Allard-trained Domethatagain returning to Pocono after winning the Van Rose Invitational on May 2.

Racing continues Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday with a post time of 6:30 p.m.