UPDATE: The Savannah Bananas are set to make their much-anticipated debut in Chicago this weekend, with sold-out games at Rate Field on August 9 and 10, 2025. This vibrant baseball team promises to transform the traditional game into a lively spectacle, and fans are ready for an unforgettable experience.
This is the first time the Bananas will play in Chicago, and excitement is palpable. “Chicago is actually on our top-five list of interests from fans,” said team co-owner Emily Cole. The Bananas are not just a baseball team; they are a phenomenon, blending competitive play with entertainment.
Games kick off at 7 p.m., but the festivities begin much earlier. Fans can gather at the “pregame plaza” located in the parking lot north of 35th Street starting at 2 p.m. There, attendees will have the chance to meet players, mascots, and team officials. The fun continues with the “Before the Peel” show starting at 3 p.m., featuring karaoke, dancing, and interactions that promise to keep the energy high.
Cole emphasizes the significance of this event, stating, “It’s the greatest show, the greatest party and the hottest sporting event you can go to.” The Bananas aim to create a fun atmosphere that brings families and friends together.
The games will feature the Bananas competing against the Firefighters, one of their touring partner teams. They will play under the unique rules of Banana Ball, designed to maximize audience engagement. Notable rules include a strict two-hour time limit and unconventional gameplay elements like scoring points by winning innings and the ability for fans to catch foul balls for outs.
Since their inception in 2016, the Savannah Bananas have revolutionized the baseball experience, focusing on entertainment over traditional competitiveness. Cole revealed that they analyzed fan behavior to create an engaging atmosphere, noting, “Fan habits were showing us that two hours was about the limit.”
The Bananas’ reputation has surged, with many fans flocking to see their energetic performances, which often feature dance breaks and engaging antics. Starting pitcher Ryan Kellogg, who has a history with the Chicago Cubs, expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m very excited to be back in Chicago. My parents are there and it’s always a good time.”
The event is a testament to the Bananas’ commitment to breaking down barriers between athletes and fans. Emily Cole added, “One of our main focuses is to break down that barrier between athletes and the fans.” This mission has resonated with audiences, allowing for more interaction and a sense of community.
As the Bananas take the field for the first time in Chicago, fans can expect a blend of traditional baseball and electrifying entertainment that is unique to the Bananas’ approach. The emotional engagement of witnessing this spectacle is sure to create lasting memories.
With a staggering 99.9% chance that fans will want to return after this weekend, the Savannah Bananas have set the stage for a thrilling introduction to Chicago’s sports scene. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the hottest sporting event in town!
