Ready to rock out at the #1 event in Arizona for MLB Spring Training? Innings Festival is coming back to the valley on February 25 and 26. Here’s everything you need to know before you go. 

Logistics

Innings Festival has some great Q&A information on their website. But for those looking for the quick-read version, here are the main points. 

Re-entry

Yes, you can leave and re-enter the festival on the same day (up until 7 p.m.). 

Moneys

Innings Festival is 100% cashless. So make sure to link your wristband with PayPal, Venmo, or your credit card before the event. 

Bags

Bags smaller than 4.5” x 5.5” with one pocket do not need to be clear. All other bags must be fully clear and can’t be larger than 12” x 12” x 6” and not have multiple pockets. Hydration packs can be used, but must be empty upon entry. (Don’t test them on this, trust me.)

Other Items

You CAN bring: strollers, frisbees, binoculars, blankets, reusable water bottles, and non-aerosol sunscreen. You CAN’T bring aerosol or glass containers, coolers, professional cameras, drones, hammocks, umbrellas, pets, selfie sticks, tents, chairs, carts, drugs, outside food/ or beverage, weapons (duh) or fireworks (although we really want to know the story behind why that made the list). 

Pro Tips

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s dive into the real insights. Here are some pro-tips from a 4-year veteran of the fest. 

Plan for Arizona to be Arizona

You’re going to need water and sunscreen. I know having to put on sunscreen and carry around a bottle isn’t ideal. But think how much more ridiculous you’re going to look when you’re sunburnt – or worse – being carted off for dehydration. Not a good look. 

What to Wear

Sorry to sound like your mother, but be smart in what you choose to wear to Innings Fest. Pick shoes you’re prepared to stand in all day. Wear a hat, sunglasses or other items that will help block you from AZ’s sun rays. 

“It’s Arizona! It doesn’t get cold.” Think again. The forecast is calling for highs in the 60s and lows in the 50s with light rain. Bring a jacket or something to keep you warm once the sun goes down. Plus, when you’re not wearing it you can use it for a makeshift picnic blanket. (They don’t keep that Tempe Beach Park grass alive, like at all.) Thank me later.

Leveraging the Setlist

The main perk behind having three stages? More music, obviously. The main drawback of having three music stages at Tempe Beach Park? Having to account for a ¼ mile hike between Home Plate and Right Field. I wish I was exaggerating. (Again, wear comfy shoes people!) 

Before you go, look over the setlist and decide which bands and player appearances are your top priority. For example, would you rather see the last of Umphrey’s McGee’s set or meet Randy Johnson? You won’t be able to catch both (no pun intended), so plan accordingly. 

Getting Around

Mill Avenue is a great place to hang out, grab food and snag a drink before or after the festival. However, it’s a terrible place to find parking and even more crazy when you see the surge pricing from Lyft. If you’re able, leverage the Valley Metro Rail to get in and around the Tempe area before and after the festival. It’s $4 for the day or $2 for a one-way ride. 

Onsite Eats

Speaking of food, Innings Festival is also a culinary celebration. They select the best in the southwest to feed their patrons. There’s something for everyone including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options! 

Alchemy Roast Coffee & Tea // @alchemyroast

Danzeisen Dairy Creamery // @danzeisencreamerystores

Dilla Libre // @dillalibreofficial

El Jefe Tacos // @eljefetacos

Farmboy American Fare // @farmboyamericanfare

Guac Girl // @guacgirlaz

Hot Bamboo // @hotbamboo

Island Noodles // @islandnoodles

Moonshots Stadium // @moonshotsstadiumonwheels

Philly Up // @phillyupfoodtruck

Pork on a Fork BBQ // @porkonaforkbbq

Pupusa Princess // @pupusaprincess

The Spot // @thespotfood

Tom’s BBQ // @tomsbbqaz

Tot Box // @totboxflag

White Mountain Food Co // @whitemountainfoodco

TLDR

Innings Festival is an absolute blast. But just like any other festival, it pays to be prepared! Activate your wristband, bring sunscreen, wear something warm, prioritize your time and leave meal planning to the food trucks. See you on the mound! 

Be sure to follow PHX Fray for other event insights and catch our weekly Radar listings to find the best of the best of what to do in the Phoenix area. Subscribe to #FrayLife // @phxfray