Baseball is back in St. Louis, and there’s nothing quite like Cardinals Opening Day! It’s more than just the first home game of the season—it’s a citywide holiday filled with excitement, tradition, and an unmatched energy that only Cardinals fans can bring. Whether you’re heading to Busch Stadium or just soaking in the festivities around town, Opening Day in St. Louis is an experience like no other.
A Brief History of Cardinals Opening Day
The St. Louis Cardinals have a long and storied history, and Opening Day has always been a special event in the city. From the legendary Stan Musial to modern-day greats, Cardinals fans have celebrated the return of baseball with generations of memories. The team’s rich tradition and passionate fan base make Opening Day one of the most anticipated days on the St. Louis calendar.
Fan Festivities & Traditions
Opening Day in St. Louis is an all-day celebration. The streets downtown are flooded with a sea of red as fans gather hours before the first pitch. Here’s what you can expect:
- The Cardinals Opening Day Pep Rally
- Time: Begins at 7:00 AM
- Location: Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: Join Todd Thomas and Team Fredbird in the Together Credit Union Plaza for entertainment, giveaways, and more.
- The Player Parade
- Time: Typically held in the late morning or early afternoon before the game.
- Location: Downtown St. Louis, exact route varies.
- Details: Current and former Cardinals players parade through downtown in Ford trucks, greeting fans en route to Busch Stadium.
- The Clydesdales Appearance
- Time: Shortly before the game starts.
- Location: Busch Stadium
- Details: The iconic Budweiser Clydesdales make a ceremonial lap around the field, a cherished Opening Day tradition.
Where to Celebrate if You Don’t Have Tickets
Not everyone can score tickets to Opening Day, but that doesn’t mean you can’t join in on the fun! Here are some of the best spots around St. Louis to catch the game and soak up the energy:
- Ballpark Village
- Location: Adjacent to Busch Stadium at 601 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: Offers an electric atmosphere with big screens, giveaways, and a game-day experience like no other.
- Broadway Oyster Bar
- Location: 736 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and delicious seafood, it’s a popular spot for fans to gather.
- Paddy O’s
- Location: 618 S 7th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: A favorite among Cardinals fans, offering multiple bars, outdoor patios, and plenty of TVs to catch the game.
- Schlafly Tap Room
- Location: 2100 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103
- Details: Enjoy locally brewed beers and a diverse menu in a lively setting.
More Events Around St. Louis
Opening Day isn’t the only thing happening in St. Louis this week. Here are some other events worth checking out on Opening Day and Friday, March 28th:
- Cardinals Opening Day Watch Party at Ballpark Village – website
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 28, 2025, all day
- Location: Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: Watch the game on giant screens, enjoy food and drink specials, and celebrate with fellow Cardinals fans.
- The Post Sports Bar & Grill Opening Day Party – website
- Date & Time: Thursday, March 28, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM
- Location: The Post Sports Bar & Grill, multiple locations
- Details: A great spot to watch the game, with gameday specials and a lively crowd.
- Museum of Illusions Spring Break – website
- Date & Time: Friday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 am
- Location: 3730 Foundry Way Suite 168, St. Louis, 63110
- Museum of Illusions Goes Retro this Spring inviting Millennials and Gen Z to relive the 90s and 2000s. This event combines mind-bending illusions with retro pop culture elements, including nostalgic props like CD chandeliers and Tamagotchis, along with interactive quizzes and Instagram-worthy photo setups.
- “Collected” Opening Weekend Celebration – website
- Date & Time: March 29 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Location: Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112
- Details: Be the first to see the new Collected exhibit showcasing the Missouri Historical Society Collections in a way you’ve never experienced before!
- St. Louis Riverfront Cruise – website
- Date & Time: March 29 @ 12:00 pm | Recurring Event
- Location: 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63102
- Details: All aboard! The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch provide an unparalleled experience on the Mississippi River.
Whether you’re inside Busch Stadium, celebrating at Ballpark Village, or enjoying the citywide energy, Opening Day in St. Louis is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Cardinals baseball isn’t just a game here—it’s a way of life. So grab your gear, join the sea of red, and get ready to welcome back the Birds on the Bat!
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