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| Baseball game day tips - hot dog at Fenway Park with baseball field in the background |
Going to your first baseball game is not just a 9 innings experience! You will be walking to the stadium, eating, listening to music and enjoying the atmosphere. Planning ahead will allow you to make the most out of the day. This guide will show you what to wear, bring and eat to ensure you have a comfortable first game day!
What to wear
Wear appropriate clothing for the weather. A baseball cap will help protect your eyes from the sun. Comfortable shoes will help you as you will be walking a lot and climbing the stairs into the stadium. A light jacket would also be a good idea as it can get chilly in the evenings. If you have any jerseys or caps for your team then wear them! This is an easy way to feel like you are part of the crowd.
What to bring
Don’t overpack. Usually you will only need a small bag, ticket, phone and some cash. A portable charger is great to have but if it is a day game then you may want to bring some sunscreen! Check the stadium policies as each stadium will have different policies on how large your bag can be. Try to arrive early so you can find your seat easily.
A Short Story:
When Dan went to his first game he packed everything he thought he would need. He took a large bag along with a blanket, 3 snacks, a book and an extra shirt. At the gate he was stopped due to having a large bag. He missed out on the first inning as he had a lot to carry back to his car. The next time he went he only took his ticket, phone and cap. He arrived early and enjoyed the whole game. Dan learnt that the first rule to a game day is to not overpack so you have more time to enjoy the game!
What to eat
Eating whilst at the ballpark is all part of the experience. The traditional foods include a hot dog, peanuts and a cold drink. The famous Cracker Jack is also a great choice. It is a sweet snack consisting of popcorn and peanuts which has been part of baseball for over a century. On your first visit try one of the traditional foods. However, it is best to eat before the game starts getting busy as the lines can get very long between innings.
Tips for beginners
Try to arrive 30 minutes early so you can watch the players warm up and find your seat. Stand up and sing during the 7th inning stretch. If possible stay until the end of the game as the final innings can often be the most exciting. If you have children with you point out the mascot and food stalls so they can enjoy every inning.
FAQ
Can I bring my own food into the stadium?
This depends on the stadium. Some allow small snacks and sealed bottles of water but others don’t. Check the stadiums policies on their website.
What if it rains?
Games can be postponed due to rain. Check the forecast before leaving and keep hold of your ticket as games usually continue once the rain stops.