Baseball is a staple in both of our families. We have so many fun memories growing up of going to baseball games with our families, getting autographs from our favorite players, and playing on recreational teams so we could become great at the sport. From Spring Training to the All-Star festivities, Post-Season play with World Series hopes, something special occurs when you watch a game with your family. Needless to say, we now love taking our families to Petco Park to cheer on the San Diego Padres.
We love that the Padres value family and have a handful of great programs and events to support families, and especially kids, at the ballpark. We started taking our children to the ballpark when they were toddlers. Yes, it can be done and yes, you can enjoy the game. We share some of our tips here.
One of our favorite times is to take our family when there is Padres KidsFest. Sundays at Petco Park are perfect for family fun! Access is free with a ticket to the game and there is so much for kids to do — from bounce houses and other inflatable games, to face painters and balloon artists. The family friendly area is located on, and around the lawn area and starts two hours prior to first pitch. Our boys enjoyed it all, especially jumping around and practicing their throwing skills while trying to get the baseball through designated holes in one of the games.
The fun keeps going after the game with Kids Run the Bases, following most Sunday home games. Kids and their families can begin lining up following the conclusion of the eighth inning in Gallagher Square, at the top of the ramp leading to the Toyota Beach on K Street. This activity has a whole new perspective for them as they had their first Little League seasons this year. And yes, they did ask why they aren’t allowed to steal the bases yet like how the Padres do. We explained that they will get to do that as they get older and that the first year is all about learning how to run to first base!
Padres KidsFest can also be a great thing to do with baseball/softball teams or a group of friends or neighbors. Not only will the kids and families have fun connecting off the field, but it is great for the young athletes to see the professionals in action and make the connection with what they are learning and see how it is executed.
On five extra-special Sundays (and a special Monday in September!), the first 8,000 kids in attendance can receive a special giveaway item. All kids ages 14 and below will receive one (1) giveaway item (while supplies last). For more information about all giveaways this season, visit Padres.com/Giveaways.
Thank you San Diego Padres and Petco Park for having us out. All of our thoughts and opinions are our own.
