MIAMI — With the Miami Marlins’ home opener less than two months away, the team on Saturday welcomed fans to loanDepot park for FanFest, a family-friendly event designed to build excitement for the upcoming season.
Young fans lined up to step into the batter’s box, taking swings at home plate before sprinting toward first base, living out a big-league moment on the Marlins’ field.
For many of the kids, it was a chance to imagine themselves as future stars.
“It was just going to be a bomb,” one young fan told Local 10’s Byron Tollefson as he stepped up to the plate.
The retractable roof was opened for the occasion, letting sunshine pour into the ballpark as fans took part in activities throughout the day.
Mascot Billy the Marlin made his rounds, handing out high fives, while Marlins pitchers Michael Petersen and William Kempner signed autographs and posed for photos.
Petersen, in his second stint with Miami, said the atmosphere made the day special.
“It’s amazing,” Petersen said. “You never know what to expect, and seeing a beautiful day like this, roof’s open, kids running around having a great time. That’s the future, so it’s cool to see them out.”
FanFest featured player and alumni meet-and-greets, live programming on the main stage, photo opportunities with the Marlins’ 1997 and 2003 World Series trophies on the Legends Level and $1 hot dogs available throughout the park.
Guests were also treated to special announcements and first looks, including the unveiling of the 2026 class of the Marlins Legends Hall of Fame.
Live music filled the Blue Moon Brew Hall, while Beerfest returned to the Bullpen Bar & Grill.
On the field, fans participated in pop-up challenges, a speed-pitch contest and a wiffle ball home run derby on the Marlins’ diamond.
The event also highlighted local small businesses through the team’s Our Comunidad initiative, giving fans a chance to customize clear stadium bags with vinyl stickers.
The Marlins open the regular season at home on March 27, against the Colorado Rockies at loanDepot park.
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