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Here's the schedule leading up to Cardinals home opener

From a pep rally to the Clydesdales to the first pitch, there's a lot to take in before the home opener.

ST. LOUIS — Pep rally, giveaway, Clydesdales and more!

One of the most important days in St. Louis is here. The Cardinals home opener is on Thursday against the Miami Marlins. 

RELATED: What you need to know ahead of St. Louis Cardinals home opener

From a pep rally to the Clydesdales to the first pitch, there's a lot to take in before the home opener. Here's a schedule of what to expect on Thursday: 

10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Before gates open at Busch Stadium, fans can join Fredbird, Team Fredbird, DJ Todd Thomas, Cardinals organist Dwayne Hilton and Cardinals Alumni in Ballpark Village for a pep rally. 

The pep rally will take place at the Busch II Infield Stage in the Together Credit Union Plaza. 

The event is free and will include prizes and ticket giveaways. 

Noon 

Gates open at Busch Stadium! 

Fans ages 21 and older will receive a magnet featuring the 2024 Cardinals schedule. 

12:05-1:50 p.m. (subject to change) 

The Cardinals and Marlins will each have batting practice for 50 minutes during the timeframe.

2:30 p.m. 

The pregame ceremonies will include the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales as per tradition in St. Louis. 

Fredbird, Team Fredbird and Cardinals ownership and management will be introduced to the crowd. 

Cardinals Hall of Famers and Hometown Heroes who played for the Cardinals will be introduced. 

2:48 p.m. 

The Cardinals and Marlins will be introduced.

3 p.m. 

The National Anthem will be performed by country music singer Michael B. Whit with Color Guard presented by the Ft. Leonard Wood Joint Service Color Guard. 

The ceremonial first pitch will be made by members of the 2004 National League Championship team. 

3:15 p.m. 

Play ball! 

Cardinals pitcher Lance Lynn will throw the first pitch. 

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