Richmond Flying Squirrels Unveil Opening Week Celebration at New CarMax Park

Richmond Flying Squirrels owner Lou DiBella had a simple reason for rejecting the traditional single-game opener at the team's new CarMax Park: one day isn't enough. The Flying Squirrels announced "First Flight at CarMax Park presented by Richmond Times-Dispatch," a six-day Opening Week celebration running April 7–12, 2026, replacing the conventional opening day with a full slate of themed events, giveaways, and family programming to mark the ballpark's inaugural homestand.

"The opening of CarMax Park has been a massive, 15-year undertaking," DiBella said. "Celebrating with just one opening day doesn't fit the achievement. We felt it was important to roll out a full itinerary of events to commemorate this new park and new era for the Flying Squirrels, and to thank everyone who made this dream a reality."

Every game during the six-day run will include a Pregame Blastoff Bash outside the main entry gates, along with an Inaugural Series rally towel giveaway presented by CarMax distributed to all fans throughout the week. CarMax Park will also serve as a live gallery during Opening Week, with select artists on-site putting finishing touches on a permanent public art collection installed throughout the ballpark.

The week closes with Signature Sunday on April 12, presented by Woodfin. That afternoon features a pregame autograph session with Flying Squirrels players, a kids' aviator giveaway, and a postgame kids' run-the-bases event. Gates open at 12:30 p.m. with first pitch scheduled for 2:05 p.m.

General Manager Anthony Oppermann has been emphatic about what separates CarMax Park from anything else in minor league baseball. He pointed specifically to a 34-foot LED display, which he described as "the first of its kind in minor league baseball," and promised that sight lines throughout the venue, from the outfield to the baselines, will keep fans immersed in the action. "No matter where you are in the venue you have an incredible view," Oppermann said. "You'll feel like you're right on top of the action."

The Flying Squirrels are scheduled to play 69 home games at CarMax Park in 2026, with the season running from April 7 through mid-September. Richmond residents interviewed ahead of the opening captured the city's mood: anticipation layered with nostalgia for The Diamond, the team's previous home. "I'm going to miss the old Diamond, but I think it will be a good change," said fan Drew Chamberlain. Others, like Sarah Hastings and Shivon Sood, are focused squarely on what's ahead: "The crowds of people, the food, the drinks, it's just going to be fun energy and a good time."

Additional Opening Week programming details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can reach the team at (804) 359-3866 or visit the Richmond Flying Squirrels website for updates. Games will stream on Bally Sports Live.