Ballpark caters to fans and families alike
Bingo, a bounce house, hot dogs and live music – it’s not a carnival, it’s the ballpark.
And tonight during the Spokane Indians game, those hot dogs are just a buck each (ice cream sandwiches and soft drinks, too).
Between the cheap eats and seats that start at just $5, it’s a great deal for families, said Dustin Toms, the team’s public relations director.
Tonight there will also be Baseball Bingo, and after the game a concert by the Kelly Hughes Band.
“We like doing it really big on Fridays,” Toms said.
And, as always, there’s Otto, Doris and Recycle Man.
“The mascots, they’re out here to make sure children have the time of their life,” Toms said.
Each game features different promotions and activities. Thursday, the attention turns to Otto the Spokanasaurus. The team is celebrating the mascot’s birthday.
“He turns 8 every year – he’s forever young,” Toms said. (He’s 8 because when kids ask how old he is, he holds up his eight fingers.)
Gonzaga’s Spike, Eastern’s Swoop and other local mascots are invited to the party, “because they’re his best friends,” Toms said.
On Aug. 21 and 22, there will be fireworks after the games.
And for baseball fans whose children haven’t inherited the love of the game, there are plenty of activities to keep youngsters occupied.
The Kids Zone is basically free day care at the game for little ones, Toms said. It’s staffed with baby sitters and filled with a variety of activities, from batting cages and a bounce house to checkers and sidewalk chalk.
Toms said families often will choose seats in right field so they can be next to the Kids Zone.
Older children can head over to Molina Field, which is set up for wiffle ball.
“They won’t even watch the game because they’re busy playing their own game,” Toms said.
Kimberly Lusk
When: 6:30 p.m. today, Saturday and Thursday; 3 p.m. Sunday
Where: Avista Stadium, 602 N. Havana St.
Tickets: $5 to $20, available through TicketsWest