Opening Day games are an unforgettable way to kickstart any season, especially when hosted at brand new ballparks - as will happen soon in Cincinnati with Great American Ball Park's debut in 2023. On Thursday's home opener, it is expected that all seats will be filled to capacity at the stadium. Gates Open at Noon Home Opening Day is an exciting event for baseball fans. Not only will it feature the inaugural game, but there will be plenty to do before and afterward as well - with new food options, giant video boards, pregame ceremonies and special pregame ceremonies scheduled before each game - such as Norelle Simpson singing the National Anthem or Ohio Air National Guard 112th Fighter Squadron performing a flyover. Fans also have an opportunity to try some new concession stand items like crab Rangoon nachos, buffalo chicken mac and cheese or The Wild Thing; vegan chili dog with onions Flamin' Hot Cheetos and American cheese This year's home opener is especially notable as it marks the first time since 1968 that all 30 Major League Baseball (MLB) teams will open on the same day (although two games from Mariners-Athletics doubleheader were postponed due to rain). McGregor Square opens at 7:00 am while Mile Post Zero opens at 8 am at the park - fans have many options before the gates open at noon including The O.G. and Tom's Watch Bar at hotel as well as various restaurants throughout city. Opening Day marks an exciting chapter in Colorado Rockies history as they host their rival Washington Nationals to kick-start the 2016-17 campaign. Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Kyle Freeland will face Washington Nationals pitcher Josiah Gray - two World Series champions currently tied with Colorado for first place in NL West division. Gate opening times typically depend on both the day of the week and game time. For example, Houston Astros night games allow fans into the stadium two hours prior to first pitch - something many other stadiums do also, although there may be exceptions. Most gates for regular season games open 90 minutes ahead of game time but ticket holders and premium "guests" (such as suite and club area patrons) typically enter earlier. Pregame Ceremonies Begin at 1:30 p.m. Opening Day marks the end of winter and kick-starts an exhilarating new baseball season for many baseball fans, with various pregame ceremonies featuring various events to commemorate this day - each team often having its own traditions that they follow for Opening Day games; Boston Red Sox fans should look out for several exciting surprises on Thursday when their home opener against Baltimore Orioles kicks off! Red Sox Pregame Entertainment will feature an impressive line-up of musicians. Violinist Abigail Stahlschmidt will perform the Canadian National Anthem before vocalist Norelle Simpson sings it for America. Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece will serve as Honorary Captain while former Reds third baseman Todd Frazier will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Before the national anthem is performed, Ohio Air National Guard's 112th Fighter Squadron will flyover. A moment of remembrance will also take place before singing of the national anthem; and on-screen tribute video tribute to those affected by Pittsburgh shooting victims will also be displayed. At their respective home openers, each team will introduce its roster of players to the crowd. Furthermore, the Rockies will recognize their 2023 All-Star team members and Gold Glove winners during this ceremony. Home opener will draw a crowd, with two hours before first pitch scheduled to open two hours earlier than normal for regular season games. There will only be limited tickets available at the gate so fans are advised to arrive early. Parking at this event is expected to be very limited and fans are strongly advised to use public transit or carpool. Anyone choosing to drive in downtown area is reminded not to leave valuables in their cars and observe all parking regulations; parking in Warehouse District area is prohibited from 10 pm-4 am and any individual found parked illegally will be subject to towing action. First Pitch is at 2:10 p.m. As MLB season opens this Thursday at Coors Field, fans are eagerly awaiting their inaugural visit. Expectedly, this year's home opener against Washington Nationals should sellout quickly. Fans should plan to arrive three hours prior to game start time as parking lots will open three hours beforehand. If all spots at the stadium are full, fans can park in McCormick Place (Lot B). Free shuttle service will be offered between these lots for all home games at the ballpark. Pregame festivities will include a tribute to those serving in the Armed Forces as well as a flyover by U.S. Air Force 28th Bomb Wing; additionally, 10,000 fans will receive commemorative Opening Day pins! Kenyatta Gaines will perform, while Cleveland native Norelle Simpson will sing the National Anthem. Before the game, the roster and coaching staff of both teams will be unveiled, followed by former Pirates pitcher AJ Burnett throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. After the game, there will be a fireworks show to commemorate the start of the 2023 season. The Guardians will also host a Street Fest from 3-7 p.m. featuring live music performances, face painting artists, caricature artists, free admission for those attending both activities; tickets must still be present to attend game play. The game will be hosted by an innovative Phanavision scoreboard that is 77% larger than its predecessor and spans across 152 feet wide and 86 feet tall. Fans are sure to have plenty of other activities planned during and after the game to keep themselves busy; don't miss Kids Run the Bases presented by Fifth Third Bank and Pets in the Park presented by Arbor View Animal Hospital! For more details regarding all activities taking place during White Sox home opener, please click here.