Miami Marlins kick off season asking fans to bring flags and musical instruments

Attendance at Marlins games has been disappointing in recent years. According to the Miami Herald, the team failed to sell out its 2023 season opener by 6,000 seats.

The Miami Marlins’ spring season, which kicks off on Thursday, might be a little more lively as the team is inviting spectators to bring flags and musical instruments.

The idea is to bring the same energy and enthusiasm seen at the 2024 Serie del Caribe and 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Attendance at Marlins games has been disappointing in recent years. According to the Miami Herald, the team failed to sell out its 2023 season opener by 6,000 seats. That said, attendance was up 30% from the previous year, a team spokesperson said.

Team leadership is hoping that the change in rules will bring larger crowds. The Caribbean Series drew more than 30,000 spectators, many toting bongos, maracas, cowbells and other instruments.

“We know how special baseball is for our community, many with roots in the Caribbean, and we are going to bring that passion and energy back in a special way,” Caroline O’Connor, Marlins president of business operations, said in a news release earlier this month.

The stadium is also revamping its menu offerings. Its new Béisbol Bundle is an all-you-can-eat package (starting at $52) and includes premium seating and unlimited food and nonalcoholic drinks at the Caliente Grill Concession Stand. Also new this year is a gator chili topping for hot dogs and nachos, made with fresh ground alligator slow-cooked with Latin flavors, per the team.

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