The Padres annual FanFest runs next Saturday, February 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Petco Park. This year, in addition to the usual meet the players and get autographs and run the bases and have lots and lots and lots of fun, there are a few more interesting perks.
My favorite is this: In memory of Jerry Coleman, there will be an opportunity during FanFest for fans to visit the Jerry Coleman statue at the East Village gate to record a message about the beloved broadcaster or a memory of their favorite Coleman call.
The line for that one will should be awfully long, and it's one more fitting tribute to the late Hall of Famer.
Also, FanFest will be the first chance for fans to guarantee their Opening Night tickets through the purchase of a Padres Pack, with options for three, six or nine games. The purchase of any Padres Pack at FanFest will come with first access to also purchase Opening Night tickets (Sunday, March 30 vs. Los Angeles Dodgers at 5:05 p.m.). The packs will be available in three levels of the seating bowl, with prices starting at $59. Fans will not have to commit to their choice of games right away. Instead, they will receive digital vouchers loaded to their Membership card (or MLB.com At the Ballpark mobile application) that can be redeemed for the game of their choosing. At the time of redemption the fan will secure the best remaining seats in the designated area of their purchase.
In addition, the Padres Foundation will host its annual Garage Sale inside the Park Blvd Gate. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase rare, one-of-a-kind Padres items, including game-used jerseys and batting helmets, with proceeds going to the Padres Foundation.
As always, FanFest is free and open to the public. Gates open to the general public at 10:00 a.m. Padres Members receive exclusive early access from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Beginning Thursday, fans who are not Members can register at no cost at www.padres.com/fanfest for a special pass allowing them to enter at 9:30 a.m.
Free parking will be provided in four locations: the three surface lots along Imperial Avenue (southeast side of Petco Park) and the Padres Parkade garage (10th Ave. at J St.).
