Cincinnati's Duke Energy Convention Center debuts its $264 million renovation with a fan favorite tradition as RedsFest returns to the venue this weekend after a brief hiatus. FOX19 reports that the first 10,000 attendees will be greeted with a Redsfest drawstring bag and sticker sheet as they walk through the doors of the revamped center.
The two-day event, hailed as the first major event at the renovated facility, promises to be an interactive celebration of baseball with appearances from over 80 current and former Cincinnati Reds players, coaches, and broadcasters, even as fans of all ages can look forward to autograph sessions, meet-and-greets, and witnessing a slice of history through game-used memorabilia, according to FOX19. In addition, seasonal ticket holders have the exclusive perk of access to dedicated autograph booths and the Ultra Lounge, as detailed in an article by Dayton Daily News.
Tickets for RedsFest are available, with prices at $44.50 for adults and $28.25 for kids 12 and under for a two-day pass, and $33.75 and $23.25, respectively, for one-day passes, as mentioned by Dayton Daily News; for those younger than 3, admission is free. Events, including Main Stage showcases, a Celebrity Poker tournament, and a Reds Heads Fun Zone, are all part of the package, ensuring entertainment and active engagement for everyone involved.
Amidst the festivities, pitcher Andrew Abbott shared his enthusiasm about the event and the venue transformation with Local12 saying "I think it was 2023 the last time we had something here, so it looks like a little more space, a little more open," expanding on the improved atmosphere for fans to connect with their team, and Reds Community Fund executive Charley Frank added, "There's interactives all over the place. There's three levels for kids to play and burn off some steam, speed pitches and press conferences, and all kinds of great things on the stage, Bronson Arroyo playing guitar. There's just so much for everybody," in statements obtained by Local12. The community essence of the event is emphasized with the Reds Community Fund benefitting from the proceedings, as reported by FOX19.
