Planning the Fort Wayne TinCaps’ promotional schedule feels like juggling chainsaws and bowling balls — simultaneously. It’s a challenge, but that’s the cost of success.

Since moving to Parkview Field in 2009, the TinCaps have consistently drawn large crowds.

“We welcomed our 7 millionth fan last year,” said Team President Mike Nutter, referring to games and special events. 

In 16 seasons downtown, the team has averaged 375,000 fans a year, with more than 5,000 attending each game on average.

That’s the dilemma for Nutter and his team: They need to make hard decisions and keep things fresh and relevant. 

Planning 66 games isn’t just about logistics. It’s about making each one exciting and ensuring there’s something new to look forward to, year after year.

However, Nutter believes this could be their best lineup yet.

“Our mission is simple: Deliver Minor League Baseball fun on a big-time scale,” he said. “We’re not just here for the game. We’re here for the moments families will cherish.

The season opener is Friday, April 4, at Parkview Field against the Lansing Lugnuts with fireworks to follow. Tickets are available starting at just $8 at TinCaps.com or by swinging by the ballpark.

“We treat every game like it’s the most important one on the calendar,” Nutter said. “We don’t take any night for granted. If fans show up, it’s our job to make it worth their time.”

On the field, the TinCaps are welcoming Lukas Ray as manager. At just 28 years old, Ray is bringing fresh energy and experience. Having led teams to championship contention in the Padres system, Ray is already generating excitement among the players and fans alike.

Fireworks and Bobbleheads

Fireworks and giveaways are staples of the TinCaps experience. 

This season features 28 fireworks shows, including a special one on July 3 for Independence Day. These shows have become a fan favorite, offering an exciting way to cap off a night at the ballpark. 

As far as giveaways go, on Friday, July 11, the first 1,000 fans will receive a bobblehead of Kevin Kiermaier, the retired major leaguer who won four Gold Glove Awards and just won a World Series title with the Los Angles Dodgers after starting his baseball career at Fort Wayne Bishop Luers.

On Sunday, Aug. 31, fans will have a chance to grab a Jackson Merrill bobblehead, celebrating his success after playing for the TinCaps in 2023 before his call up to the San Diego Padres, where he earned an all-star spot last season.

Celebrity Nights

Fans can look forward to celebrity nights, connecting them with pop culture from TV and movies. 

On Saturday, May 17, Megan Cavanagh will be there for Fort Wayne Daisies Night, celebrating the 1992 movie A League of Their Own and Fort Wayne’s deep ties to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

Former WWE great Mick Foley (aka Mankind, Dude Love, and Cactus Jack) will bring the pro-wrestling vibe Friday, June 27, adding some star-studded energy to the ballpark. 

John O’Hurley, best known for his role as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, will join us for Seinfeld Night on Friday, Aug. 15. 

Each of these nights has Premium Ticket Packages, which include meet and greets along with your All-Star Ticket.

Theme Nights

This season includes several popular theme nights. 

Military Appreciation Night is Saturday, May 3, followed by Star Wars Day on Sunday, May 4 (May the Fourth Be With You), and Harry Potter Night on Friday, Aug. 29. 

Along with those special nights, on Tuesday, June 24, Kids Toy Takeover Night gives families a chance to bring their toy-themed fun to the ballpark, which will coincide with Peanut Allergy Awareness Night. Then there will be DC Superhero Night on Friday, July 11, offering fans a chance to celebrate their favorite superheroes. Then, 

Other notable promotions are Fort Wayne Wizards Night on Thursday, May 22; Dino Night on Saturday, May 24; Princess Night on Tuesday, July 29; Totally ’80s Night on Friday, Aug. 1; ’Caps Against Cancer on Saturday, Aug. 16; and Sesame Street Day on Sunday, Aug. 17.

From June 12-14, the TinCaps will honor Indiana’s unofficial state sandwich — they will be known as the Hoosier State Tenderloins as they take on the South Bend Cubs in special uniforms. 

The TinCaps will also be dressed in different apparel during Hispanic Heritage Games on Friday, May 16; Tuesday, July 1; and Sunday, Aug. 3. For those games, the TinCaps will be known as the Manzanas Luchadoras (Fighting Apples) as they don all-new uniforms for this season.

For the kids, they’ll get to see some of their favorite characters when Daniel Tiger, Katerina Kittycat, and Clifford the Big Red Dog stop by Saturday, April 19. Other characters slated to stop at Parkview Field during the season are Chase from Paw Patrol on Sunday, May 25; SpongeBob SquarePants on Sunday, June 29; and Bluey on Sunday, July 13. All have a Premium Ticket Package available.

Weekly promotions also continue this season with Family Feast Discounts on Tuesdays, pet-friendly Paws & Claws Night on Wednesdays, and Thirsty Thursdays.

Celebrating Independence a day early

This year marks a shift for the TinCaps. For the first time in many years, there won’t be a July 4 home game due to increased demand for that date. 

However, fans can still enjoy the USA celebration on Thursday, July 3, keeping the Independence Day spirit alive at Parkview Field. The night will begin with a pregame concert, followed by the game against Lansing, with fireworks to follow.

Promotions and Inclusivity

The TinCaps are energized and ready to make every game a special occasion. 

In doing so, Tuesdays are no longer considered “throwaway” nights. These games have been reimagined with discounted concessions, fireworks, and special activities to draw in more fans. 

Sundays, too, now match the high-energy vibes of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night games, making every day at Parkview Field an event worth attending.

Inclusivity remains a top priority. Sensory kits are available at every game. These enable fans with sensory sensitivities to enjoy the lively atmosphere. 

Plus, the newly installed LED lighting system will enhance the fan experience with dynamic light shows that will surely make for a memorable night.

Concessions and New Food Offerings

Food is always a big part of the ballpark experience, and the TinCaps have introduced several new and exciting menu items.

Highlights include apple pancakes, a gourmet grilled cheese cart, and made-to-order pizza with gluten-free options. 

Fans can also cool off with refreshing apple margaritas or indulge in treats like sugar and cinnamon pretzels, mini corn dogs, and pints of ice cream. Indiana’s beloved Hoosier State Tenderloins and the cheesesteak burrito will also make an appearance, combining classic flavors into a perfect handheld option.

“These aren’t just ballpark basics,” Nutter said. “We’ve added variety while keeping prices affordable.”

The new food offerings will be available in a refreshed area in center field, giving fans even more options to explore. 

As we’ve come to expect, Parkview Field is the place to be again this summer. 

“We feel like we’ve found — at least for now — our sweet spot,” Nutter said. “It’s about celebrating the classics while daring to innovate. We’re excited for fans to come out, enjoy the games, and create memories that will last a lifetime.”