MLB Fan Fest 2013: Schedule of Events

facebooktwitterreddit
May 5, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; MLB All-Star Game ballots at Citizens Bank Park prior to the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; MLB All-Star Game ballots at Citizens Bank Park prior to the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite all of the criticism that Major League Baseball receives, one of the things that they do right is their all-star weekend. It all kicks off today with the MLB Fan Fest, which is described as the  “World’s Largest Interactive Baseball Theme Park.” Fan Fest takes place at the Jacob Javits Convention Center until July 16 (the day of the All-Star Game).

At the Fan Fest, fans have the opportunity to get an up close look at the all-star uniforms, the chance to bid on authentic memorabilia during an auction, an opportunity to participate in a home run derby, multiple autograph sessions and much more.

Major League Baseball also has some pieces from the Hall of Fame that they bring along to display, along with the trophies that can be won by players and teams throughout the season.

Fan Fest really is a great chance for those who love the game to get an up close look.

There are also many special events that take place over the course of the five-day stretch, so here is a look at what will be going down leading up to the all-star game.

Saturday, July 13: All-Star 5k & Fun Run — 5k at 8 a.m., Fun Run immediately following
Saturday, July 13: Charity Concert including Mariah Carey at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 14: Futures Game at 2:00 p.m. at Citi Field
Sunday, July 14: Legends and Celebrity Softball Game takes place after Futures Game. Roster includes the likes of Mike Piazza, Bernie Williams, Chris Rock, Kevin James, Boomer Esiason and Jennie Finch.

Monday, July 15: Home Run Derby at 8:00 p.m. The event that everyone tunes in to see.

All of the festivities will then come to a conclusion on Tuesday, July 16 when the Red Carpet Show is held leading up to the start of the 2013 MLB All-Star Game.

Which All-Star Weekend event do you look forward to the most? Sound off in the comments section and share your thoughts about the upcoming weekend.