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Major Leagues Baseball has planned a fan’s dream week for Denverites and the numerous out-of-state visitors expected to fly in for the occasion. Here’s the roster of events.
Play Ball Park
When: July 9–13
Where: Colorado Convention Center
If a fan can dream it, it’s found its way to the free five-day baseball festival hosted in Central Business District’s massive convention center. The world’s largest baseball with signatures from the likes of Hank Aaron and Yogi Berra? Check. A batting cage that animates your swing pattern? You bet. An opportunity to do the same drills as the pros? Sure, just make sure you test your speed and agility before hitting the food court. Play Ball Park will also host a rotation of baseball legends giving autographs, along with a mini field for youngsters, games, prizes, and more.
MLB All-Star 5K
When: July 10, 9 a.m.
Where: Civic Center Park
A scenic run (or walk) through Denver’s downtown is always a treat, but this 5K through Capitol Hill and the Golden Triangle neighborhood further sweetens the deal by posting a squad of mascots at the finish line to cheer on competitors. Once you’ve caught your breath, stop by the beer garden and listen to live music while lingering over a pint. Tickets start at $40 for adults and $20 for kids. Be sure to register by 11:59 p.m. on July 5.
All-Star Sunday
When: July 11, 1 p.m.
Where: Coors Field
Settle in at the Rockies’ home stadium for an epic doubleheader (tickets start at $20). First up is the Sirius XM All-Star Futures Game, featuring a lineup of top Minor League players getting their chance to show off on a major league stage. Pay close attention—the MVPs of this American versus National league matchup might just offer a preview of baseball’s next stars. The participants of the MLB All-Star Celebrity Softball Game later that afternoon might have less to prove, but they’re no less competitive. Expect familiar faces like Dance Moms alum and YouTube star JoJo Siwa, Grammy Award–nominated producer and DJ Steve Aoki, Riverdale actor Charles Melton, Queer Eye’s Karamo, and others.
MLB Draft
When: July 11, 5 p.m.
Where: Bellco Theater at the Colorado Convention Center
Usually held early in June, the first round of the MLB Draft will now take place during All-Star weekend, meaning the sport’s biggest stars will be on hand to celebrate the new recruits. Bonus: The 5,000-seat Bellco Theater is large enough to fit members of the public. Ticket info TBA in the coming weeks.
Gatorade All-Star Workout Day
When: July 12, 3 p.m.
Where: Coors Field
The best players in Major League Baseball take the field for the first time this weekend…to exercise. But what a workout! You’ll need a ticket to the Home Run Derby later in the day to attend, but don’t miss the opportunity to see the world’s best batting practice framed by mountainous views.
T-Mobile Home Run Derby
When: July 12, 6 p.m.
Where: Coors Field
Pundits are already predicting that Denver’s high elevation and dry climate will make 2021’s Home Run Derby (tickets start at $158) the slugfest of the century. So, too, will the presence of some of the game’s best hitters, including Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels and Trevor Story of the Colorado Rockies.
MLB All-Star Game
When: July 13, gates open at 3 p.m.; first pitch is at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Coors Field
It’s game time, baby! Following the All-Star Red Carpet Show at noon (fans can watch athletes walk the custom-purple carpet on the MLB Network at 1 p.m.), the 91st annual Midsummer Classic will begin (tickets start at $181). Need advice on what to watch for during the game and where to imbibe after the fact? We’ve got you covered.
