The Orioles will kick off the 2024 season by welcoming fans back to the beloved Oriole Park for Major League Baseball’s Opening Day on Thursday afternoon. The festivities will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a special pre-game ceremony emceed by Orioles broadcaster Kevin Brown.
Setting the tone will be the Morgan State University Choir performing the national anthem from the sod farm. A soloist from the choir will also lend their voice to “God Bless America” from atop the Orioles dugout during the seventh inning stretch.
In a solemn moment, the Orioles will hold a period of silence honoring the victims and families impacted by the tragic Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, while expressing gratitude for the brave first responders.
The Opening Day celebrations will feature several uplifting traditions and new elements:
- Flag Drop: A 30’x42′ replica flag from Fort McHenry, the inspiration for the Star-Spangled Banner, will be lowered during the anthem. The Arc Baltimore will assist in unfurling the massive flag.
- Honor Guards: Color guard details from the Baltimore City Police and Fire Departments will present the colors.
- Flag Kids: Children from the YMCA of Central Maryland will line the orange carpet waving Orioles flags.
- First Pitch: Fourth-grader Aubree Singletary, the child of a postal worker, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch caught by Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr.
- Mo Gaba Fan of the Year: 9-year-old Carter will be recognized as this year’s Mo Gaba Fan of the Year and join Orioles stars on the field.
- New Ownership Ushers In New Era: David Rubenstein and the new ownership group will deliver the ceremonial “Play Ball” call.
- Birdland Community Hero: Sara Artes of Corner Team, Inc. will be honored for her community volunteering, with a $5,000 donation.
- Budweiser Clydesdales: The iconic Clydesdales will parade around the park from 11:45am-1pm.
- Giveaway: All fans will receive an Orioles rally towel.
- Auction: Game-used memorabilia will be auctioned to benefit the Orioles Charitable Foundation.
The Orioles will take on the Los Angeles Angels at 3:05 p.m. ET to officially launch another season of baseball in Baltimore.