If you’re heading to any of the Blues home matches this season with kids (including a great Father’s-Day-gift option on June 16), here’s what you need to know:
- Parking is surprisingly easy and only $15 at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium when we went. We got there about an hour before match time and there was no traffic and no wait. We noticed lots of families tailgating and cars were spread out enough that kids had room to kick a ball around. We decided we would definitely come earlier next time, bring some snacks, and enjoy the family-friendly tailgate atmosphere.
- Tickets are very reasonably priced starting at $8 and most seating is General Admission, which makes it easy to meet up with friends and sit together.
- Space for fidgets: You know every seat in the house gives a great view for watching the plays develop. But does that mean your kid is going to sit still and watch for 90+ minutes? Laugh with me, moms. If your kids get antsy, there are plenty of spaces where they can blow off steam, like the grassy hills in the end zone area where kids were literally rolling down the hill.
- Concessions: Offerings include your standard stadium fare such as pretzels, popcorn, candy, etc. Mom and dad- yes, they have beer and seltzers available. We heard a rumor that sometimes they have wine.
TIP: Buy concessions early because lines can get long and supplies are limited on some treats. They ran out of cotton candy early the night we went 😱
- Kids Zone: Annapolis Moms Media hosts a kid-friendly tent behind the merch tent and above the Yager Pavillion. They’ll have coloring books, temporary tattoos, bubbles, games, prizes, and more as a welcome diversion for the younger crowd.
- Post-match player autographs: We saved the best tip for last! This was the kids’ favorite part of the night. After the match ends, kids are allowed down on the pitch in a designated area for a player meet-and-greet. Players (had their own Sharpies) and signed shirts and posters while chatting with the kids. We noticed that just about every player we talked to thanked us for coming.
Mom POV Summary: The kids were super impressed by this fun outing, it was reasonably-priced, and we were happy to be supporting a local team. BONUS: The kids were exhausted and went right to bed. 😆 What more could you ask for?
Home match dates remaining are June 7, June 16, June 29, and July 6. Ready to get your tickets now? Click here.
