The family-friendly showcase takes place from 6-9 p.m. and has transformed the home of the Dayton Dragons into a winter wonderland of lights and decorations, tasty holiday treats and beverages, holiday shopping, the North Pole Express, a 44-foot-tall Christmas tree, photos with Santa and more.
“We are always looking for opportunities for people to come and visit us at the ballpark and make memories,” said Brandy Guinaugh, executive vice president and assistant general manager of the Dayton Dragons. “People are looking for something new and different. We have other great opportunities in the Miami Valley to check out lights so why not us? We’ve been examining this (idea) for a while.”
Other ballparks may follow suit
The organization hopes to replicate the success of ballpark holiday light shows across the country.
“Some of our peers in Minor League Baseball have ventured down this similar path in their markets and it’s been great for the communities they serve and reside them, many of which are in downtown spaces like ourselves,” Guinaugh said. “On the surface we’re a baseball team and all you had was the spring and summer for baseball, and we have now extended that economically with our neighboring companies and businesses. The chance for people to come downtown and do something fun as a family unit, a date night or with a group of friends — it’s going to be great. This is a great way to bring connection to people.”
What to expect
The multitudes of lights are not stagnant, which allows the atmosphere to feel fun and magical.
“Approximately every 10 minutes the lights will dance and animate to a certain song on our playlist,” Guinaugh said. “Our test runs in the evenings have been really fun to watch. But Deck the Diamond is not just about walking around looking at lights. We have a lot of things that make this (event) special.”
Additional activities includea scavenger hunt and playing carnival games. Families can also enjoy taking selfies at various “Elfie Stations” which are all around the ballpark.
In particular, the Tinsel and Tunes Stage and the Front Page News are two elements being presented by the Dayton Daily News. The Tinsel and Tunes Stage will feature holiday music performed live by local musicians, choirs and instrumental groups. The Front Page News is a photobooth intended to attract anyone who has ever dreamed of being on the front page.
MORE DETAILS
Day Air Ballpark has numerous areas available for groups, families and companies of any size to celebrate the holidays together including luxury suites (heated indoor suites), the NEW Diamond Club, and more.
Those who want to book a holiday party at Day Air Ballpark should go online to dragonsdeckthediamond.com or call (937) 228-2287 ext. 698.
Day Air Ballpark is a cashless venue, and Merry Market, the North Pole Express and all food and beverage items require additional purchases. All other activities are included in the ticket price, the organization said.
Tickets may also be purchased in-person at the Day Air Ballpark Box Office or by calling (937) 228-2287.
Day Air Ballpark is located at 220 N. Patterson Blvd., Dayton.
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