April 17th, 2009 - 4:56 pm

Fridays After Five

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I'm sure I'm not the only one who has that antsy, can-it-please-be-the-weekend-already feeling this afternoon. It's freaking gorgeous outside and the weather is set to be just as nice the rest of the weekend. Probably a good time to enjoy some outside hangouts or try some of these:

With a deal like this it's no wonder that J.A. Murphy's in Fells Point calls their drinking special the Happiest Hour. From 4-7 p.m. tonight and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. tomorrow, enjoy half-priced drafts, $3 mixed drinks, and $1 shots. Yeah, that last part's right. 1703 Aliceanna St.

It's time for the Marquee Ball over at the Creative Alliance at the Patterson on Saturday night. This year's theme: Goldfinger. Expect to see performances from burlesque dancers, clowns, and acrobats. Also, enjoy live music from rockers Junkyard Saints, a silent auction, and appetizers and drinks. Dress code calls for "suave mod or Bond formal glam attire." 3134 Eastern Avenue, 410-276-1651

Last year, nearly 6,000 people (and their furry friends) walked for the Maryland SPCA's March for the Animals. Something tells me this year's event, which is the 14th in its history, will draw an even bigger crowd. Besides raising money for the SPCA, the event features pet costume contests, an agility course for dogs, obedience demos, and a market of pet-friendly vendors. It runs Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Druid Hill Park.

[Image: courtesy of 600Block.com]