San Diego Padres FanFest 2026


Posted in 2026 in


Padres FanFest returns to Petco Park on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 10 AM to 4 PM. This free, family-friendly event is the official kickoff to the 2026 season, featuring player autographs, interactive field activities, Q&A sessions, and exclusive experiences throughout Petco Park.

Quick Info

  • Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
  • Time: 10 AM – 4 PM (Season Ticket Members: 9 AM)
  • Location: Petco Park
  • Admission: Free (advance tickets required)
  • Parking: Free, first-come first-served

Get Tickets & More Info



2026 FanFest Highlights

Player Autographs & Meet-and-Greets
In 2026, the Padres introduced a new reservation system for player and alumni autographs to improve the fan experience and reduce wait times. Fans who claimed FanFest tickets by Monday, January 12 at 11:59 PM PT were eligible to reserve autograph sessions.

⚠️ Autograph reservations for 2026 are SOLD OUT. Walk-up autograph opportunities may be available day-of on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the official schedule and signage at the event for details.

Field Activities

  • Kids Run the Bases (presented by Chick-fil-A, ages 14 and under)
  • Pitch in the bullpen
  • Catch a fly ball in the outfield
  • Take photos in the dugout
  • Tour the Grounds Crew area

Gallagher Square Activities

  • Play Ball Field – Open for interactive baseball activities
  • Nuna Playground for kids
  • Inflatables and bounce houses
  • Face painting
  • Scavenger hunt for kids

Padres Foundation Garage Sale
Shop one-of-a-kind Padres memorabilia, jerseys, helmets, and collectibles near the Park Blvd Plaza. All proceeds support the Padres Foundation.

Q&A Sessions
Throughout the day, Padres players and leadership will speak on the Sycuan Stage in Gallagher Square.

Shopping & Food

  • Padres New Era Team Store (Western Metal Building and Gallagher Square locations)
  • First tastings of new 2026 concessions
  • Ballpark food and drink specials
  • Live music from the Padres House Band

Entry Times & Gates

Season Ticket Members, Partners, and Waitlist Members: 9 AM entry

General Fans: Two entry times available

  • 10 AM entry time
  • 1 PM entry time

Fans are limited to four (4) free tickets per account. Entry times are assigned based on your ticket type. Check your tickets in the MLB Ballpark app for your specific entry time.

Important: All FanFest tickets are digital and accessible via the MLB Ballpark app. Each person in your party must have their own ticket transferred to their mobile device before arrival. General public should use ticket code Padres26 when claiming tickets.

Ticket deadline: Friday, January 30 at 11:59 PM PT

Parking

Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in Padres-controlled lots:

Parking lots open at 7 AM. Tailgating is prohibited.

Tip: Arrive early—parking fills up quickly. Consider public transportation or the MTS Trolley to avoid parking hassles.

Reserve parking in advance: Find nearby parking on SpotHero

What to Know Before You Go

  • Cashless venue: Petco Park accepts credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay at all concessions
  • Gates open: 9 AM for season ticket members, 10 AM or 1 PM for general fans (check your ticket)
  • Large turnout expected: Arrive early to avoid delays and maximize your time
  • All ages welcome: Family-friendly activities throughout the park
  • Subject to change: Player appearances and activities may change. Check official Padres communications for updates

More Information


Petco Park Insider is the independent fan's ultimate guide to Petco Park, delivering practical, up-to-date insider knowledge that helps San Diego locals and visitors make the most of every game, concert, and event at the ballpark. Join the conversation (@PetcoParkSD) or contact us about info posted on this website. For tickets and stadium experience inquiries, contact the Padres at 619–795–5000.

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