opening weekend

By Jen DeSalvo, WLS-AM News

(CHICAGO) The Chicago White Sox issued recommendations for fans attending games during the upcoming season, specifically home opening weekend Friday, April 8 through Sunday, April 10.

Friday’s home opener begins with the first pitch at 3:10 p.m., and fans are encouraged to be seated at 2:15 p.m. for the opening ceremonies at U.S. Cellular Field. The gates to the ballpark will be open after 1:10 p.m. for fans to traverse the park and head to seats.

Big John Howell from the WLS-AM 890 morning show will be appearing at ChiSox Bar and Grill, which is across the street from the ballpark, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ChiSox Bar and Grill opens at 7 a.m. Friday, and will remain open for “at least two hours after each home game” for the duration of the season.

Following the John Howell appearance, the Steve Dahl Show airing live at 2:00 p.m., followed by the White Sox Pre-Game show with Connor McKnight. The sold-out home opener will broadcast live on WLS-AM 890. The full broadcast schedule can be found on the WLS-AM 890 White Sox web page.

The gates will open 90 minutes prior to first pitch for the Saturday and Sunday games (11:40 a.m.).

For comprehensive transit and travel information, click here. Tailgating after the game is prohibited.

The Chicago White Sox ask that fans abide by Chicago tobacco laws:

In accordance with the City of Chicago ordinance, tobacco of any kind (including smokeless tobacco and electronic cigarettes) is prohibited in all areas of U.S. Cellular Field.

There is a designated smoking area outside of Gate 2 and Gate 5. Those fans wishing to use tobacco must proceed to the ground level at the base of the ramps at Gate 2 and Gate 5.

Additionally, it is requested from the Chicago White Sox that fans be respectful of the neighborhood and homes surrounding the ballpark before and after games.