For a change of pace from the traditional hotel room meeting space or the indoor events held during the winter months, baseball stadiums offer a range of corporate entertainment and meeting options. And the baseball team group sales and marketing folks have developed many options.
Most people consider a day at the ballpark for entertainment only options. However, because most ballparks allow arrivals as early as 1½ hours prior to the game, corporate event planners also use the ballpark to host business meetings directly in the suite or elsewhere prior to the game. Incorporating sports hospitality to build relationships is an excellent idea for event planners.
It’s also important to note that stadiums can also be used on non-game days as a unique venue for business meetings or social events. Most baseball fields are willing to rent out their boardrooms and conference rooms.
Common group entertainment choices include:
- Private suites/super party suites for 12 to 60 or more people.
- Patio picnic areas that also allow groups to watch batting practice
- Field deck parties for group events
- Pre-game tents for catered events
- Conference room space for pre-game meetings
Programs may also include on-field access during pre-game player batting practice for group members, VIP tours of the park, in-game messaging and recognition on the jumbo-tron (scoreboard), parking passes, suite attendants and bartenders.
Food and Beverage Packages
Each ballpark typically works with a third party catering company Food and beverage operations include packaged options and a la carte selections. Most teams offer a standard buffet dinner package that may include:
- Bratwurst, hot dogs, chicken
- Vegetable platters, snack tins, cookies and brownies
- Predetermined number of soft drinks and beer
Event planners should anticipate increasing quantities of certain foods and beverages or even upgrading the catering items.
