Redsfest starts today!

The Cincinnati Reds will kick off their annual Redsfest event this afternoon, with the doors of the Duke Energy Convention Center opening at 3:00 PM EDT. Chances are if you’re going, you’ve already purchased your tickets. Tickets can also be purchased at the venue and, as of now, there’s still an option on the Redsfest website to purchase tickets and you can use the MLB Ballpark app to get them delivered electronically.

All throughout the 2019 season, the Reds will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings, which will include the team wearing 15 different throwback jerseys throughout the year. All 15 versions will be on display at this year’s Redsfest. 150th anniversary merchandise will also be available for purchase, should you so desire.

Redsfest always features a “Who’s Who” of Reds players, coaches, management, and television personalities, and promises to be a fun event for friends and family. Currently, 31 Reds major league players are scheduled to attend at least one of the days, including Joey Votto, Eugenio Suarez, Billy Hamilton, Jesse Winker, Scott Schebler, Tucker Barnhart (Saturday only), Anthony DeSclafani, Michael Lorenzen, and Raisel Iglesias, among many others. Most of the Reds top minor leaguers will also be on hand, including Hunter Greene, Nick Senzel, and Taylor Trammell.

Notable non-attendees include Scooter Gennett and Phil Ervin, who both had prior personal commitments, but hope to be available for this spring’s Reds Caravan.

This will also be the first official Reds appearance for new manager David Bell and his staff.

Festivities include player autographs and photo opportunities, as well as other special events including Redsfest Bingo benefiting the Reds Community Fund and the Celebrity Poker Tournament on Saturday. The list of Redsfest “Main Stage” events can be found here, but it’s worth noting especially that the always great Kids Only Press Conference is scheduled for Saturday at 2:00 PM EST.

All the pertinent info can be found at the Redsfest website, including some Frequently Asked Questions about the event that may help your day go a little smoother. Let me help: No, you cannot bring your drone and no, you cannot wear your masks or full bodysuits. I felt the need to specifically point that out for fellow Red Reporters.