It’s a Cincinnati holiday.The Cincinnati Reds open the 2025 season at home against the San Francisco Giants. From the parade to the ceremonial first pitch and everything in between, here’s what you need know about Cincinnati’s hometown holiday. LET’S TALK BASEBALLThe Reds will enter the 2025 season with a new leader in two-time World Series champion manager Terry Francona.Francona takes over a Reds team that is looking to bounce back from a 77-85 season last year.In addition to Francona, several new faces have joined the Reds this offseason, including starting pitcher Brady Singer, infielder Gavin Lux, catcher Jose Trevino and outfielder Austin Hays.Second baseman Jonathan India and relief pitcher Fernando Cruz were among the players who were traded out of Cincinnati since the 2024 season ended.As was the case last season, all eyes are on shortstop Elly De La Cruz and starting pitcher Hunter Greene, who made their first All-Star Game appearances last season.De La Cruz, 23, stole 67 bases and hit 25 home runs in his first full MLB season last year, while Greene placed eighth in National League Cy Young voting.Outside of De La Cruz and Greene, the return of second baseman Matt McLain is being closely watched, with the former first rounder returning to the diamond after missing all last season with a shoulder injury.FINDLAY MARKET OPENING DAY PARADEThe 2025 Findlay Market Opening Day Parade kicks off at noon.Former Reds third baseman Chris Sabo, known as “Spuds” will be this year’s Opening Day parade grand marshal.Sabo was the 1988 National League Rookie of the Year and a 1990 World Series Champion.The Reds cult legend was also known for making goggles cool, known for his big goggle Rec Specs.”Chris Sabo was a fan favorite and fans endeared themselves to him because he was all about hard work and determination,” Rick Walls Executive Director of the Reds Hall of Fame said.During the announcement, Neil Luken, Findlay Market Opening Day Parade Chairperson and Mo Egger, Findlay Market Opening Day Parade Spokesperson and iHeartMedia Sports-talk Radio Host also spent time talking about last year’s grand marshal, Jim Scott. Scott, who died after a battle with ALS, was honored during last year’s parade as fans shared signs in his honor.”Jim Scott was Cincinnati,” Reds President Phil Castellini said, remembering last year’s grand marshal and his impact on the city.Opening Day leaders also announced this year’s parade will also feature an Olympic float with current and former Cincinnati Olympians, including Carson Foster, Annette Echikunwoke and Mason Parris.There will also be a Bengals alumni float with Ken Anderson, David Fulcher. Anthony Munoz will also be in the parade on his own float for his foundation. Bengals’ Ted Karras will also have his own float for Cincy Hats.This year’s parade will also have an Honorary Grand Marshal, which will be NASCAR icon Michael Waltrip, in honor of the Reds game at Bristol Speedway.Forty horses will also take part in the parade.You watch the parade LIVE on WLWT and WLWT.com starting at 12 p.m.PARADE ROUTE/ROAD CLOSURESThis year’s route will be the standard 1.4-mile route, with the parade starting at Findlay Market on Race Street. It will go straight down Race Street all the way down to Fifth Street, turning east on Fifth Street and ending at the Taft Theater. HOW TO WATCHThe Reds and Giants will square off at 4:10 p.m. ET.The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Ohio, which was formerly known as Bally Sports Ohio, the TV home of the Reds since 2021.The Reds announced that the same broadcast crew of years past will return to the booth in 2025. That includes play-by-play announcer John Sadak, analysts Barry Larkin, Jeff Brantley, and Chris Welsh and reporter Jim Day.Sam LeCure and Brian Giesenschlag will return to host Reds Live, along with Annie Sabo, who will also work some games as a reporter.This year, the Reds and FanDuel Sports Network also announced a new direct-to-consumer product, allowing fans within the Reds’ regional territory the ability to watch live games without a cable TV subscription.The FanDuel Sports Network Ohio subscription will be available in three plans for customers to choose from.A monthly plan will cost $19.99 per month, a season pass will be available for $105.99 beginning March 20 and an annual pass will give fans access to all FanDuel Sports Network Ohio content for $189.99.Fans can subscribe to stream FanDuel Sports Network by signing up at FanDuelSportsNetwork.com. They can also do so through the FanDuel Sports Network app.WHAT’S NEW AT THE BALL PARK?With a new Reds season comes new food options at the ballpark.The Executive Chef Gary Davis debuted some of its newest options for fans this season.From beloved Cincinnati classics to ballpark favorites, there’s something for everyone. A sucker for some Saratoga chips? Try the Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco: The dish is a collaboration between Grippo’s and Montgomery Inn, combining Saratoga-style chips with pulled pork, BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Where you can find it: near sections 117, 133, 416 and 425Get your soft pretzel and burger all in one with the 50 West Soft Pretzel Double Cheeseburger. The double smash burger comes with American cheese, topped with Funacho cheese, house mustard on a pretzel bun with crinkle cut fries. This dish is only available for a limited time, until April 30. Where you can find it: 50 West StandKeep it classic with some Wings & Rings Traditional Chicken Wings: The traditional chicken wings come with garlic medium or honey barbecue sauce. Where you can find it: Food Hub near section 112Looking for something cheesy? Try the Big Mozz Chicken Parm Sandwich. The sandwich combines crispy chicken tenders, Big Mozz sticks, provolone cheese, marinara sauce and banana peppers on a hoagie roll, served with kettle chips. Where you can find it: Scouts ClubIt wouldn’t be a Cincinnati Reds menu without some goetta.The Glier’s Goetta Reuben Sliders come served with a Glier’s Goetta patty, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, served on slider buns. Find it at the Food Bar near sections 129 and 416. The Reds Double Decker Glier’s Goetta Sluggers come on a Glier’s Goetta patty, a split Glier’s brat, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, served on slider buns. Find it al the Food Bar near sections 129 and 416Looking for sweet and savory? Try the Reds Island Griller with Hempler’s sausage, pineapple salsa and Kogi sweet garlic BBQ sauce, served on a hoagie roll. Find it at the Food Bar near section 109.If you’re looking for a new take on a classic try one of their street taco offerings: The Cincy Sizzle: Brisket, pickled red onions, cilantro and salsa verdeCarne Asada Street Tacos: Steak, salsa roja, pickled red onions, cotija cheese and cilantroChicken Adobo Street Tacos: Chicken, chili verde, white onions and cilantroStreet Nachos: Choice of chicken or steak with queso, pickled red onions, salsa verde, cotija cheese and cilantroFind it at section 128 and Scouts Club.And if you’re craving something sweet, they’ve got you covered. Rosie’s Suite Bridge Ice Cream will be located in a restored Airstream trailer on the Suite Level, along the third base side. The trailer will serve soft-serve ice cream with a variety of syrups and toppings, including Baby Ruth, as well as sweet treats, candies and root beer floats. In addition to the ice cream trailer, a full-service bar will offer classic and specialty cocktails.WHAT’S THE WEATHER LOOKING LIKE?The weather is throwing a little curveball in Opening Day. It looks dry all morning and even closer to parade time. By the afternoon and evening, some brief showers can’t be ruled out if you’re heading to the parade or game:Finding your spot for the parade: 40s, mostly clear and coolNoon Parade: 55°, partly cloudy, mostly dryPre-Game at the Banks: 56°, mostly cloudyGame Time: 58°, Mostly Cloudy, small shower chance Post Game: 55°, Best chance of rain. Overnight rain and storm chance.What roads will be closed?In order to accommodate the staging area of the Opening Day parade, the following streets in the Findlay Market area will close at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 27:Race Street – closed between Liberty Street and McMicken Street Elm Street – closed between Liberty Street and McMicken Street Findlay Street – closed between Central Parkway and Vine Street Elder Street – closed between Central Parkway and Vine Street Green Street – closed between Vine Street and Logan Street Henry Street – closed between Race Street and Dunlap Street Dunlap Street – closed between Findlay Street and McMicken Street Logan Street – closed between Liberty Street and Findlay StreetBeginning at 11:15 a.m. the following Parade Route and Cross Streets will be closed in advance of the parade:Parade Route: The parade will begin at the intersection of Race Street and Liberty Street, travel south on Race Street to Fifth Street, then travel east on Fifth Street to the demarcation area at Sentinel Street.Liberty Street- closed between Vine Street and Central Parkway Central Parkway- closed between Vine Street and Elm Street Race Street – closed between Liberty Street and Fourth Street Fifth Street – closed between Central Avenue and Sentinel Street Fifteenth Street – closed between Republic Street and Elm Street Fourteenth Street – closed between Elm Street and Republic StreetThirteenth Street- closed between Race Street and Vine Street Twelfth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street Court Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street Ninth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine StreetCross Streets (close at 11:15 AM): Eighth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street Seventh Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street Sixth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street Vine Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street Walnut Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street Main Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street Sycamore Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street Broadway Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth StreetAccess to downtown hotels within the parade route closures will be maintained. For additional information motorists should seek the assistance of a Cincinnati Police Officer around the closure area. All parking within the closed areas will be restricted. Motorists are reminded to pay attention to any special parking restrictions and remove their vehicles to avoid being towed.Streets will remain closed until it is determined safe to open, after the parade has passed.Metro will maintain service but may alter downtown stops due to the parade. Streetcar service will begin at the conclusion of the parade. Motorists are urged to use alternate routes around the downtown area due to the congestion caused by the parade and heavier than normal traffic attending the Reds game.For more information about this event, click here. NOT GOING TO THE GAME?Several areas downtown are hosting Opening Day celebrations and watch parties.The Banks will host a block party ahead of the parade.The free pregame Opening Day Block Party kicks off at 11 a.m. at The Banks on Joe Nuxhall Way, Freedom Way and Walnut Street.Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Anheuser Busch, Coca-Cola, LaRosa’s, Boone County Distilling, Jim Beam and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.Live music and entertainment will be providedAll proceeds benefit the baseball and softball outreach programs of the Reds Community Fund.Washington Park will be hosting a party with food trucks, including the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile and live music.
CINCINNATI —It’s a Cincinnati holiday.
The Cincinnati Reds open the 2025 season at home against the San Francisco Giants.
From the parade to the ceremonial first pitch and everything in between, here’s what you need know about Cincinnati’s hometown holiday.
LET’S TALK BASEBALL
The Reds will enter the 2025 season with a new leader in two-time World Series champion manager Terry Francona.
Francona takes over a Reds team that is looking to bounce back from a 77-85 season last year.
In addition to Francona, several new faces have joined the Reds this offseason, including starting pitcher Brady Singer, infielder Gavin Lux, catcher Jose Trevino and outfielder Austin Hays.
Second baseman Jonathan India and relief pitcher Fernando Cruz were among the players who were traded out of Cincinnati since the 2024 season ended.
As was the case last season, all eyes are on shortstop Elly De La Cruz and starting pitcher Hunter Greene, who made their first All-Star Game appearances last season.
De La Cruz, 23, stole 67 bases and hit 25 home runs in his first full MLB season last year, while Greene placed eighth in National League Cy Young voting.
Outside of De La Cruz and Greene, the return of second baseman Matt McLain is being closely watched, with the former first rounder returning to the diamond after missing all last season with a shoulder injury.
FINDLAY MARKET OPENING DAY PARADE
The 2025 Findlay Market Opening Day Parade kicks off at noon.
Former Reds third baseman Chris Sabo, known as “Spuds” will be this year’s Opening Day parade grand marshal.
Sabo was the 1988 National League Rookie of the Year and a 1990 World Series Champion.
The Reds cult legend was also known for making goggles cool, known for his big goggle Rec Specs.
“Chris Sabo was a fan favorite and fans endeared themselves to him because he was all about hard work and determination,” Rick Walls Executive Director of the Reds Hall of Fame said.
During the announcement, Neil Luken, Findlay Market Opening Day Parade Chairperson and Mo Egger, Findlay Market Opening Day Parade Spokesperson and iHeartMedia Sports-talk Radio Host also spent time talking about last year’s grand marshal, Jim Scott.
Scott, who died after a battle with ALS, was honored during last year’s parade as fans shared signs in his honor.
“Jim Scott was Cincinnati,” Reds President Phil Castellini said, remembering last year’s grand marshal and his impact on the city.
Opening Day leaders also announced this year’s parade will also feature an Olympic float with current and former Cincinnati Olympians, including Carson Foster, Annette Echikunwoke and Mason Parris.
There will also be a Bengals alumni float with Ken Anderson, David Fulcher. Anthony Munoz will also be in the parade on his own float for his foundation. Bengals’ Ted Karras will also have his own float for Cincy Hats.
This year’s parade will also have an Honorary Grand Marshal, which will be NASCAR icon Michael Waltrip, in honor of the Reds game at Bristol Speedway.
Forty horses will also take part in the parade.
You watch the parade LIVE on WLWT and WLWT.com starting at 12 p.m.
PARADE ROUTE/ROAD CLOSURES
This year’s route will be the standard 1.4-mile route, with the parade starting at Findlay Market on Race Street. It will go straight down Race Street all the way down to Fifth Street, turning east on Fifth Street and ending at the Taft Theater.
HOW TO WATCH
The Reds and Giants will square off at 4:10 p.m. ET.
The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Ohio, which was formerly known as Bally Sports Ohio, the TV home of the Reds since 2021.
The Reds announced that the same broadcast crew of years past will return to the booth in 2025. That includes play-by-play announcer John Sadak, analysts Barry Larkin, Jeff Brantley, and Chris Welsh and reporter Jim Day.
Sam LeCure and Brian Giesenschlag will return to host Reds Live, along with Annie Sabo, who will also work some games as a reporter.
This year, the Reds and FanDuel Sports Network also announced a new direct-to-consumer product, allowing fans within the Reds’ regional territory the ability to watch live games without a cable TV subscription.
The FanDuel Sports Network Ohio subscription will be available in three plans for customers to choose from.
A monthly plan will cost $19.99 per month, a season pass will be available for $105.99 beginning March 20 and an annual pass will give fans access to all FanDuel Sports Network Ohio content for $189.99.
Fans can subscribe to stream FanDuel Sports Network by signing up at FanDuelSportsNetwork.com. They can also do so through the FanDuel Sports Network app.
WHAT’S NEW AT THE BALL PARK?
With a new Reds season comes new food options at the ballpark.
The Executive Chef Gary Davis debuted some of its newest options for fans this season.
From beloved Cincinnati classics to ballpark favorites, there’s something for everyone.
A sucker for some Saratoga chips?
Try the Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco: The dish is a collaboration between Grippo’s and Montgomery Inn, combining Saratoga-style chips with pulled pork, BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Where you can find it: near sections 117, 133, 416 and 425
Get your soft pretzel and burger all in one with the 50 West Soft Pretzel Double Cheeseburger. The double smash burger comes with American cheese, topped with Funacho cheese, house mustard on a pretzel bun with crinkle cut fries. This dish is only available for a limited time, until April 30. Where you can find it: 50 West Stand
Keep it classic with some Wings & Rings Traditional Chicken Wings: The traditional chicken wings come with garlic medium or honey barbecue sauce. Where you can find it: Food Hub near section 112
Looking for something cheesy? Try the Big Mozz Chicken Parm Sandwich. The sandwich combines crispy chicken tenders, Big Mozz sticks, provolone cheese, marinara sauce and banana peppers on a hoagie roll, served with kettle chips. Where you can find it: Scouts Club
It wouldn’t be a Cincinnati Reds menu without some goetta.
The Glier’s Goetta Reuben Sliders come served with a Glier’s Goetta patty, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, served on slider buns. Find it at the Food Bar near sections 129 and 416. The Reds Double Decker Glier’s Goetta Sluggers come on a Glier’s Goetta patty, a split Glier’s brat, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing, served on slider buns. Find it al the Food Bar near sections 129 and 416
Looking for sweet and savory? Try the Reds Island Griller with Hempler’s sausage, pineapple salsa and Kogi sweet garlic BBQ sauce, served on a hoagie roll. Find it at the Food Bar near section 109.
If you’re looking for a new take on a classic try one of their street taco offerings:
- The Cincy Sizzle: Brisket, pickled red onions, cilantro and salsa verde
- Carne Asada Street Tacos: Steak, salsa roja, pickled red onions, cotija cheese and cilantro
- Chicken Adobo Street Tacos: Chicken, chili verde, white onions and cilantro
- Street Nachos: Choice of chicken or steak with queso, pickled red onions, salsa verde, cotija cheese and cilantro
Find it at section 128 and Scouts Club.
And if you’re craving something sweet, they’ve got you covered. Rosie’s Suite Bridge Ice Cream will be located in a restored Airstream trailer on the Suite Level, along the third base side. The trailer will serve soft-serve ice cream with a variety of syrups and toppings, including Baby Ruth, as well as sweet treats, candies and root beer floats. In addition to the ice cream trailer, a full-service bar will offer classic and specialty cocktails.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LOOKING LIKE?
The weather is throwing a little curveball in Opening Day. It looks dry all morning and even closer to parade time. By the afternoon and evening, some brief showers can’t be ruled out if you’re heading to the parade or game:
Finding your spot for the parade: 40s, mostly clear and cool
Noon Parade: 55°, partly cloudy, mostly dry
Pre-Game at the Banks: 56°, mostly cloudy
Game Time: 58°, Mostly Cloudy, small shower chance
Post Game: 55°, Best chance of rain. Overnight rain and storm chance.
What roads will be closed?
In order to accommodate the staging area of the Opening Day parade, the following streets in the Findlay Market area will close at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 27:
Race Street – closed between Liberty Street and McMicken Street
Elm Street – closed between Liberty Street and McMicken Street
Findlay Street – closed between Central Parkway and Vine Street
Elder Street – closed between Central Parkway and Vine Street
Green Street – closed between Vine Street and Logan Street
Henry Street – closed between Race Street and Dunlap Street
Dunlap Street – closed between Findlay Street and McMicken Street
Logan Street – closed between Liberty Street and Findlay Street
Beginning at 11:15 a.m. the following Parade Route and Cross Streets will be closed in advance of the parade:
Parade Route: The parade will begin at the intersection of Race Street and Liberty Street, travel south on Race Street to Fifth Street, then travel east on Fifth Street to the demarcation area at Sentinel Street.
Liberty Street- closed between Vine Street and Central Parkway
Central Parkway- closed between Vine Street and Elm Street
Race Street – closed between Liberty Street and Fourth Street
Fifth Street – closed between Central Avenue and Sentinel Street
Fifteenth Street – closed between Republic Street and Elm Street
Fourteenth Street – closed between Elm Street and Republic Street
Thirteenth Street- closed between Race Street and Vine Street
Twelfth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Court Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Ninth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Cross Streets (close at 11:15 AM):
Eighth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Seventh Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Sixth Street – closed between Elm Street and Vine Street
Vine Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street
Walnut Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street
Main Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street
Sycamore Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street
Broadway Street – closed between Fourth Street and Sixth Street
Access to downtown hotels within the parade route closures will be maintained. For additional information motorists should seek the assistance of a Cincinnati Police Officer around the closure area.
All parking within the closed areas will be restricted. Motorists are reminded to pay attention to any special parking restrictions and remove their vehicles to avoid being towed.
Streets will remain closed until it is determined safe to open, after the parade has passed.
Metro will maintain service but may alter downtown stops due to the parade. Streetcar service will begin at the conclusion of the parade. Motorists are urged to use alternate routes around the downtown area due to the congestion caused by the parade and heavier than normal traffic attending the Reds game.
For more information about this event, click here.
NOT GOING TO THE GAME?
Several areas downtown are hosting Opening Day celebrations and watch parties.
The Banks will host a block party ahead of the parade.
The free pregame Opening Day Block Party kicks off at 11 a.m. at The Banks on Joe Nuxhall Way, Freedom Way and Walnut Street.
- Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Anheuser Busch, Coca-Cola, LaRosa’s, Boone County Distilling, Jim Beam and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.
- Live music and entertainment will be provided
- All proceeds benefit the baseball and softball outreach programs of the Reds Community Fund.
Washington Park will be hosting a party with food trucks, including the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile and live music.
