At Schultz's Crab House they are getting ready for the holiday weekend, and here that means it is all about the crabs.The Harris family of Essex got an early start on this Maryland tradition.
"It doesn't get any better than this...as you can see...[and] smell," says John Harris of Essex.
The Memorial Day weekend is not only the unofficial kick off to summer, but also the jump start to the crab buying season.
But, how much will it cost you this year?
At Al's seafood on Eastern Boulevard you can get a dozen females for 12 bucks. You can get a dozen males for $26.
They are expecting a big crowd this weekend.
"It looks pretty good so far, even with the economy the way it is we have a lot of people calling, asking for prices, calling around trying to find a cheaper deal," says manager Hans Moore.
Last year sky high gas prices sent the price of crabs up. But this year sellers say that is not as much of a problem. But some customers still think they are too high.
"I see them in my summer however not as often as I used to due to the prices," says customer David Buss of Middle River.
"I think the prices right now are pretty outrageous, but you got to pay for what you get I guess," says customer Aimee Evans of Rosedale.
Back at Schultz's Crab House they only sell males, ranging from $32 a dozen to $60 dollars. This long time family owned restaurant tries to keep their prices steady to keep their customers coming back.
"This is supposed to be a joyous occasion, not supposed to break the bank and in this economy we do not want people to not get their crabs," says owner Stephanie Kell.
At Schultz’s Crab House they say this weekend will be the true indicator on how much people will be willing to pay for crabs this summer.
