New Ballpark Features Await Fans During Opening Week
The Durham Bulls kick off Durham Bulls Athletic Park’s 20th Anniversary season this Wednesday, April 15. Led by new manager Jared Sandberg, the defending International League South Division Champions return to the DBAP to host a three-game series against the Norfolk Tides.
The DBAP’s 20th Anniversary season begins on Wednesday, April 15 at 6:05 p.m. when 605 West Apartments presents Opening Day. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for the game against division rival Norfolk, giving fans plenty of time to enjoy pregame festivities that will feature a special entrance by Wool E. Bull, a video tribute to the iconic ballpark’s anniversary, full roster introductions, and National Anthem performed by the Duke Pitchforks. Immediately following the home opener, fans will be treated to the first fireworks show of the season.
When fans enter the gates during Opening Week, they will be welcomed by several new features and services at the ballpark.
Bull City Hospitality, a new company fully staffed and operated by the Bulls, makes its debut as the DBAP’s new food and beverage provider. The concessionaire will bring a more local approach to the stadium’s culinary offerings, partnering with area favorites like Durham Catering, Rise Donuts, and Hog Heaven BBQ to augment traditional ballpark fare.
For craft beer fans, the new Bull Durham Beer Co. will begin brewing its two signature beers on the DBAP’s main concourse. The brewery becomes the first to be located at a Minor League stadium and one of only a few in the country to brew on-site at a sports venue.
Adjoining the Ballpark Corner Store, the East Coast Bat Company will open its doors to give fans an up-close look at the process of creating professional grade baseball bats.
Jackie’s Landing, one of the most popular elements of 2014’s massive renovations, will see the addition of a new merchandise store, the Sky Zone Rooftop Deck, and upgrades to the Wool E. World playground.
The Bulls and Tides continue the season’s opening homestand on Thursday, April 16. The 7:05 p.m. contest features the return of $1 concessions on Thursdays, as Bright Leaf hot dogs, soda, and popcorn are just a buck. In addition, Thursdays are College Nights where students can get a Terrace View ticket and $5 in Bulls Bucks for just $11 or an Outfield Reserved ticket for only $5.99 by entering the promo code COLLEGE (and using a valid .edu email address) when purchasing tickets online in advance at durhambulls.com. Finally, fans take advantage of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC True Blue Thursday promotion, where they can get a game ticket and exclusive cap for just $11.
Triangle Orthopaedic Associates presents the series finale between the top affiliates of the Tampa Bay Rays and Baltimore Orioles on Friday, April 17. Following the 7:05 p.m. game, the Downtown Durham skyline will be lit up by the first Friday Night Fireworks show of the year, presented by Bruce Hill of RE/MAX One Realty.
The Durham Bulls return home to the DBAP for the ballpark’s 20th Anniversary season opener on Wednesday, April 15. Full season, Mini Plan, group and single game tickets for the 2015 season are available now. Tickets for the 2015 ACC Baseball Championship and USA Baseball games at the DBAP are also on sale now. For more information, visit durhambulls.com, the DBAP ticket office or call 919.956.BULL.
Thanks to DBBC’s Scott Carter for this capcom story.
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