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Reds Opening Day 2025: Celebrate the Excitement with Parades and First Pitches!

The Cincinnati Reds are set to kick off their 2025 season with an exhilarating Opening Day on Thursday, March 27. This year marks the 149th Opening Day celebration in the city’s rich baseball history. The Reds will face off against the San Francisco Giants at the iconic Great American Ball Park, with the first pitch scheduled for 4:10 p.m. This annual event is not just a game; it is a cherished tradition that brings the community together in celebration of baseball and local pride.

The festivities begin early in the day with the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade, which starts at noon. This beloved parade will feature a grand marshal, former Reds third baseman Chris Sabo, who will lead the procession through the streets of Cincinnati. The parade is expected to attract up to half a million fans, making it a significant event for the community.

Pre-game ceremonies will commence at 3:30 p.m., building excitement as fans gather in the stadium. The ceremonies will include a dramatic flyover and the introduction of an honorary captain, NASCAR legend Michael Waltrip, who is also the honorary grand marshal for the parade. This year’s event will pay tribute to the late radio icon Jim Scott, with the parade starting at Jim Scott Way, commemorating his contributions to the community.

The Reds Community Fund will host a charity block party at The Banks from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This vibrant gathering will feature food, beverages, and live entertainment, with all proceeds benefiting the Reds’ outreach programs. The block party promises to be a family-friendly atmosphere, encouraging community involvement and engagement.

As fans make their way to the ballpark, they will be greeted with a variety of new food options including the Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco and the 50 West Soft Pretzel Double Cheeseburger, enhancing the game day experience. Upon entry, fans will receive a 2025 Reds schedule sticker while supplies last, adding a special touch to the day.

The parade route covers a standard 1.4-mile path, starting at Findlay Market and concluding at the Taft Theater. Streets surrounding the parade route will be closed starting at 8 a.m., so motorists are advised to plan alternate routes to avoid delays. The event is recognized as a Cincinnati holiday, with many local businesses and families participating in the festivities, further fostering a sense of community.

During the pre-game festivities, a giant American flag measuring 300 feet by 150 feet will be unfurled during the singing of the National Anthem, performed by local artist Marlana VanHoose. This moment is expected to be a highlight, as fans honor the country and the sport they love.

Hunter Greene, the Reds’ talented pitcher, will take the mound for the Opening Day game, generating excitement among fans eager to see him in action. The game will be broadcast live on FanDuel Sports Network Ohio and 700WLW, ensuring that fans can follow every moment of the action. Scheduled starting pitchers are Reds RHP Hunter Greene and Giants RHP Logan Webb, setting the stage for an exhilarating matchup.

As the game unfolds, special recognitions will take place, including the Kroger First Responder award, honoring a local hero, and the altafiber Hometown Hero recognition. The seventh inning stretch will feature “God Bless America” performed by retired Technical Sergeant Felita LaRock, adding to the emotional atmosphere of the day.

The Reds Opening Day is more than just a baseball game; it is a celebration of community, tradition, and the spirit of Cincinnati. As fans don their Reds gear and gather with friends and family, the excitement in the air is palpable. This event not only marks the beginning of the baseball season but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Cincinnati Reds and their place in the hearts of their fans.

In conclusion, the 2025 Reds Opening Day promises to be a spectacular event filled with joy, nostalgia, and community spirit. With parades, pre-game ceremonies, and an exciting game against the Giants, it is a day that every Reds fan looks forward to. As Cincinnatians come together to celebrate, they will undoubtedly create lasting memories that reflect the pride and passion of their beloved baseball team.
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