Maryland Olympic heroes’ homecoming

Published October 2, 2008 4:00am ET



Michael Phelps and his fellow Olympians will receive heroes’ welcomes Saturday, hosted by the State of Maryland, Baltimore County and City of Baltimore.

Towson Parade of Gold

» Will spotlight Michael Phelps, Katie Hoff, Jessica Long and other Maryland Olympians, Special Olympians and Paralympians.

The parade also will feature Ravens cheerleaders and the Ravens’ mascot and pep band, the Oriole Bird, Blast cheerleaders, antique cars, marching bands from Milford Mill Academy and Loch Raven, Parkville, Towson and Dulaney high schools, members of the North Baltimore Aquatic Club and much more. The parade is scheduled to end at 4 p.m. at Windwood Road.

Click here for the parade route map and map to available parking in Towson.


Fort McHenry: A Star-Spangled Salute to Michael Phelps

Fort McHenry’s gates open at 3 p.m.. and the entertainment and festivities continue until 9 p.m.

• 3 p.m. Family festivities begin at Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine.  Delicious food and official merchandise are available along with free children’s activities.

• 3 to 3:45 p.m. Dance to the world beat rhythms of Chopteeth.

• 4:15 to 5 p.m. Enjoy the vocal talents of Reverb, one the area’s best a cappella groups.

• 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dance to the ska beat of The Players.

• 6:30 to 7 p.m. Enjoy the historic sights and sounds of the Ft. McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corps.

• 7 to 8 p.m. The Star-Spangled Salute to Michael Phelps Ceremony. Hosted by “Access Hollywood’s” Billy Bush and featuring the Maryland Delegation of Olympians and live musical performances by the U. S. Naval Academy Concert Band and Morgan State University Choir, the festivities will conclude with a spectacular fireworks finale by Zambelli Internationale over the waters of Fort McHenry.

    Go to the following links for statements by politicians and more on:
    Olympians and Paraolympians

    Parking reservations

    Comprehensive schedule of all events

    Fort McHenry activities