The ING New York City Marathon 2011 is almost here, featuring an action-packed weekend of fan-friendly events and activities held in conjunction with Sunday's big race.

Chief among them is the marathon's opening ceremony, which takes place Friday, Nov. 4, from 6-8 p.m. ET on Central Park West & 67th St. in Manhattan. Spectators can begin lining up for grandstand seating at 5 p.m. ET, which is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Overflow standing will begin along the parade route.

Be sure to stick around after the ceremony for a fireworks display (weather permitting) and live entertainment sponsored by Poland Spring.

On Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. ET, the inaugural NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K will start near the United Nations and then across 42nd Street before heading uptown into Central Park for the final dash across ING New York City Marathon finish line.

Finally, on Sunday (Nov. 6), the race day schedule will begin as follows:

8:30 a.m. Wheelchair Division
8:45 a.m. Foot Locker Five Borough Challenge
8:55 a.m. Handcycle Division and Ambulatory Athletes with Disabilities
9:10 a.m. Professional Women
9:40 a.m. Wave 1 Start (including Professional Men)
10:10 a.m. Wave 2 Start
10:40 a.m. Wave 3 Start

A course map for the entire 26.2 miles is available by clicking here. Remember: most of the major streets will be closed so plan on using public transportation (ideally the subway) to get around town.

Also, if you're planning to go and cheer for the fleet-footed, the Verazzano-Narrows and Queensboro Bridges are closed to spectators, but will be available to watch live on NBC.

For more information on this weekend's marathon be sure to hit up our event preview by clicking here.