Tampa Bay Rays Fan Fest Relocates to St.Pete Pier amid Stadium repairs
Due to notable damage inflicted by Hurricane Milton, the Tampa Bay Rays have announced a change of venue for their annual Fan Fest. originally scheduled to take place at Tropicana Field, the event will now be held at the picturesque St. Pete Pier on Febuary 15, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
the hurricane tore thru the stadium’s fabric roof system, leaving 18 out of 24 panels in need of replacement. This extensive repair project is estimated to cost a staggering $55.7 million and must be completed before the team’s opening day in 2026.
While construction crews work diligently to restore Tropicana Field throughout 2025, the Rays require a temporary home for events like Fan Fest. As per the stadium’s contract, the responsibility for roof repairs falls on the city of St. Petersburg. City Council member John Muhammad expressed a desire to carefully review the city’s obligations in this regard, stating to ESPN, “I’d like to pare it down and see exactly what we’re obligated to do.”
Despite the ongoing repairs, the Rays are continuing pre-spring training workouts at Tropicana Field.Fans eager to attend the relocated Fan Fest can secure free tickets through the team’s official website, raysbaseball.com/fanfest. The event promises a fun-filled afternoon with interactive games, opportunities to meet and greet players, and a charitable yard sale benefiting the Rays Baseball Foundation.For those seeking an exclusive experience, two VIP options are available: a 45-minute fishing excursion or a relaxing tiki boat cruise alongside Rays players, both priced at $250. Season ticket holders will enjoy early access to dedicated photo and autograph sessions with the players.
The Rays will soon announce the roster of players scheduled to participate in autograph signings at Fan Fest. With the team undergoing significant roster changes, fans are eagerly anticipating the lineup.
Rays Ready to Ride the Wave: An Interview wiht Former Rays Pitcher, David Price
Tampa Bay Rays fans mark your calendars! Fan Fest is moving to the St. Pete Pier on February 15th, 2025, due to extensive damage from Hurricane Milton at Tropicana Field. This unexpected change got us thinking about the impact on the team and the fans, so we spoke to former Rays pitcher and World Series Champion, David Price, to get his take on the situation.
Interviewer: David, thanks for taking the time to chat with us. You know the Trop well, how surprising was the extent of the damage from the hurricane?
David Price: It’s a shame about the roof, really. Tropicana Field has always been a unique ballpark, and it’s played a big part in the Rays’ success. I know those hurricanes can be brutal, so it’s not surprising ther was some damage, but to have 18 panels needing replacement is a hefty undertaking.
Interviewer:
The repairs are estimated at a whopping $55.7 million!
David Price: Yeah, that’s a lot for any team to swallow, but thankfully, it appears the city is on the hook for that. hopefully, they can get it all sorted out before opening day in 2026.
Interviewer: the team is keeping the pre-season workouts going at the Trop despite the repairs. Do you think that’s the right call?
David Price: Absolutely.
You can’t let a little roof damage stop you from preparing for the season. Baseball players are resilient, and I’m sure they’ll make it work. Besides, those guys are professionals; they’re used to adapting to different environments.
Interviewer: Now,Fan Fest is a highlight for Rays fans,and this year it’s a little extra special with the shift to the iconic St. Pete Pier. What are your thoughts?
David Price: I think it’s awesome! The St. Pete Pier is a beautiful location, and it’ll give fans a chance to experience Fan Fest in a totally new setting. It’ll be a great way to showcase the city and connect with fans outside the usual ballpark atmosphere.
Interviewer: There are even VIP experiences with the players available! Fishing trips, tiki boat cruises—is this a sign the Rays are moving towards a more luxurious fan experience?
David Price: I think so. Teams are always looking for ways to engage with fans and create unique experiences. It’s a smart move.
Fans love getting up close and personal with their favorite players, and these VIP options offer something truly special.
Interviewer:
Now, on the athletic side, the Rays have seen some roster changes recently. From your perspective
as
a former player, how do you think these changes will affect the team this year?
David Price:
Every year is a new challenge in baseball. It’ll be interesting to see how the new additions jell with the existing players and how the team’s chemistry evolves. But the Rays have a great front office and coaching staff, so I’m confident they’ll be competitive.
Interviewer: Thanks for shedding light on the situation, David. We know many Fans are curious about your thoughts on the Rays’ future. What message would you give them heading into the 2025 season?
David price: Just keep the faith, Rays fans. The team is in good hands, and they’ll be ready to fight for another championship. Tampa Bay is a baseball town, and the support of the fans means everything to these players.
We want to hear from you, Rays fans! Do you think moving Fan Fest to the St. Pete Pier is a good idea? How do you feel about the roster changes this off-season?Share your thoughts in the comments below!
