Any seasoned sports fan knows that the greatest fan experience isn’t the Super Bowl or the NCAA Tournament or even the World Series. It’s minor league baseball. No other sport or level of play combines the competitiveness of the game on the field with the level of fun and entertainment in the stands, from first pitch to the final out, and plenty more even after the last strike is called.
That’s why we’re so excited for Tampa’s hometown team, the Tampa Tarpons, to kick off their season this April at George M. Steinbrenner Field. The Single-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, the Tarpons have been a staple in Tampa for nearly three decades, and their 2024 season may be the biggest one yet. Single game and season tickets are available now.
While the main draw on the field is the opportunity to see the stars of tomorrow, the in-game experience offers fans a chance to enjoy one of the most iconic stadiums in baseball, while taking advantage of the fun and entertainment that minor league baseball offers. The Tarpons just released their promo lineup for this season, and it’s better than ever.
From a dog parade around the warning track and a chance to play tee ball at home plate, to a stadium splash zone and even a good ol’ American apple pie giveaway on July 3, there are dozens of reasons to head out to the ballpark this year. This is a place where the fireworks aren’t limited to the action at home plate, either – actual fireworks shows take place after three different games this year.
We won’t say no to Taco ‘Bout Thursdays: All-you-can-eat tacos with $3 drinks to boot. And if you want to get in on the competition, try the Sink or Swim Happy Hour all-you-can-drink on Fridays and Saturdays, where $20 gets you unlimited beer and wine (as well as ½ off cocktails) until the Tarpons give up a run. We’ll be cheering for a low-scoring game those days.
Don’t miss theme nights at GMS Field
For more family-friendly options, we recommend the $2 Tail Waggin’ Tuesdays, which includes $2 tickets for dogs and humans, as well as $2 select concessions items. To really get some bang for your buck, the Family Four Pack Fridays includes 4 tickets, 4 Tarpons hats, and 4 hot dog dinner vouchers, all for only $60. There’s even a Boy Scout Sleepover Night on April 27, complete with a Pinewood Derby Tournament and camping on the field.
And when you hit the stadium, don’t forget to stop in to Monument Park, where the greatest Yankee players are honored. Take a trip down memory lane and see the retired numbers and plaques of these baseball icons.
While literally every night at the ballpark has something special, there are a few big dates to keep in mind:
- Bark in the Ballpark Home Opener: April 9, including free Tampa Tarpons Tennis Balls and Dog Tags to the first 500 dogs, plus dog parade around the warning track, and dogs and kids can run the bases after the game.
- Fireworks at the stadium: April 13, July 3, and September 4, a free post-game fireworks show is included with any ticket.
- Baseball camp: June 19-21, kids can enjoy playing on the field and learning from the world’s best in this three-day camp.
- Bobblehead giveaway: June 22, fans will receive an Anthony Volpe Gold Glove bobblehead, while supplies last.
- Marvel Studios “Defender of the Diamond” night: August 10, Marvel superheroes will be in attendance along with other superhero activities as part of this partnership between Marvel and MiLB.
Single-game tickets for entry to the historic stadium are always available, and the Tampa Tarpons also offer plenty of ticket packages to make it even more affordable. Check them all out here, from flex plans and Kids Club tickets, to a bobblehead-and-fireworks mini plan, as well as full season ticket packages that get the best seats to all 66 homes game, as well as a slew of discounts and gifts.
The Tampa Tarpons officially begin the home slate of their 2024 season in a six-game series against the Dunedin Blue Jays on April 9-14. Learn more and get tickets here.
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