April 8, 2024
This year marks the 30th anniversary of baseball in Kannapolis! And with the home opener just days away on April 9, 2024, we’re highlighting all the great reasons to go to a game this season.
Throughout three decades, this beloved Minor League Baseball team has had four names. Established in 1995 as the Piedmont Phillies, and with later seasons as the Boll Weevils and the Intimidators, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers revealed their current identity in 2019.
Over the years, the franchise — an affiliate of the Chicago White Sox — has garnered a loyal following who come out in droves to cheer on the home team and see their favorite players swing for the fences at Atrium Health Ballpark. Here are 10 reasons why!
1. Thrilling Action on the Field
In baseball, there’s no sound quite like the roar of a crowd when the home team scores a home run. The Cannon Ballers are no strangers to exciting plays and big wins, keeping attendees on the edge of their seats.
After the all the excitement on the field, fans can take in another thrilling spectacle on select nights: Post-game fireworks! After every Friday and Saturday home game in 2024, stick around as the Ballers light up the night sky with this celebratory display.
2. Local Eats & Drinks
At Boomer’s Bistro, indulge in game-day concessions from hot dogs to peanuts. They also serve juicy burgers, pulled pork sandwiches and a giant plate of nachos, perfect for sharing. Save room for an ice cream cone from Cannon Creamery. And coming soon, Towel City Tavern will offer barbecue and bourbon from its prime location overlooking the ballpark. Other craft beverages for those 21 and over to enjoy include Baller Beer Kannapolis Lager and the brand new Long Baller American Light Lager from Cabarrus Brewing Company.
Since the ballpark is located in the heart of downtown, fans can also arrive early to enjoy a taste of Kannapolis in the West Avenue District. From dinner at Chophouse 101 to sipping an Earnhardt Outdoors Ale at Old Armor Beer Company, even more exceptional food and drink can be found within steps of the main gate.
3. Boomer the Mascot
During games, the mustachioed, goggle-wearing, helmet-headed Boomer entertains fans with daredevil-like antics and wild schemes. And when he isn’t at the ballpark, he’s often seen out and about visiting and having a blast with the community.
Boomer’s name is the sound a cannon makes, and don’t be surprised if he reminds you of a certain racing legend; his look is an homage to hometown hero, Dale Earnhardt, Sr. The special story of this city’s unique history its citizens are woven all throughout the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers brand.
4. Enthusiastic Hometown Spirit
At Atrium Health Ballpark, the Cannon Ballers’ biggest fans join Boomer in cheering on the players, and you can’t help but get caught up in the team spirit!
The sense of community pride here is one-of-a-kind and it’s represented in many significant ways. Take the 30th Anniversary logo— Each layer of this thoughtful design represents an era of baseball in Kannapolis over the years as well as the loyal fans who continue to support their hometown team.
5. Enjoyment for Everyone
The energy here hits an all-time high during promotional nights which feature fun themes and giveaways that everyone will enjoy.
Weekly promos include $2 Tuesday, Wieners & Wags Wednesday — featuring hot dog specials and an invitation for your furry friend to attend — and Thirsty Thursday. Throughout the season, fans can snag signature giveaways like card sets, Hawaiian shirts, and commemorative glasses. Plus, mark your calendars for marquee theme nights including Princess Night, Human Cannon Ball, Defender of the Diamond and more.
6. Stunning Ballpark Sunsets
A baseball game on a balmy summer evening is a dreamy thing — entire movies have been made about it. The sweet scent of freshly cut grass. The buzz of cicadas. The warmth of the setting sun.
The ballpark in Kannapolis is where you’ll find one of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Cabarrus County. Have your camera ready to capture this magnificent sight, then settle in under a the starry sky for the next inning.
7. Music from the Live Organist
Along with the thud of the ball finding a player’s mitt and the crack of a bat, there are even more memorable sounds that fans will take in during an experience at here.
Another unforgettable sound at Atrium Health Ballpark is the baseball tradition of live organ music which soundtracks pivotal moments of a Cannon Ballers game. Professional musician and organist Jason Atkins, aka GreazyKeyz, plays the organ from his spot behind home plate, bringing a dose of nostalgia to every play.
8. Gear from the Team Store
Whether you’re shopping inside the ballpark or online, the Ballers’ team store, Cannon City Supply Co., carries the coolest merch around. Shop the on-field collection for a replica jersey, snag special edition items like Kannapolis Q’s gear, plus Ballers ball caps, decals, tees, baseballs and even collars so your pups can support their favorite team.
Guests will also find Kannapolis Cannon Ballers souvenirs available for purchase inside the Cabarrus County Visitor Center located at 10099 Weddington Road – Suite 102 in Concord.
9. The Best Seat in the House Is Every Seat
In Kannapolis, you don’t have to catch the game from a traditional seat.
The stadium offers premium home plate and infield box seats along with seats at the outfield bar, right field terrace, Upper Club or picnic area. Fans can also spread out a blanket and watch the game from the grass berm. Or, enjoy the action while on the move. A walking track that’s part of the city’s Loop the Loop trail encircles the field and the stadium also has a 20,000-square-foot Kids Zone with an interactive splash pad.
10. Affordable Fun
Because there’s not a bad seat in the house, and with so much fun packed in a single outing, visiting Atrium Health Ballpark offers tons of value. Whether you’re planning to go to a game solo, bring your family along or enjoy an evening with a large group of friends, the Cannon Ballers have plenty of ticket options to choose from. Single-game tickets are available along with group ticket pricing, 10-game mini plans and more.
Relive the Experience All Year Long
The fun of a visit to Atrium Health Ballpark is that it doesn’t end after the last pitch is thrown. This stadium stays open year-round as a public park for the community, including access to the Kids Zone, walking track, and more. With this perk, and over 60 home games on the schedule, there are plenty of opportunities to visit this local favorite in 2024.
Learn more about Kannapolis and start planning your visit today.
