Savannah Bananas Thrill Chapel Hill with Unique Game and Boost Economy
The Savannah Bananas will face the Texas Tailgaters at UNC’s Kenan Memorial Stadium on the weekend of April 11 and 12. Fans should plan ahead for schedule changes, transit adjustments, and special events around campus.
Weekend schedule and pre-game activity
The Pre-Game Plaza opens at 2 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. on Sunday. The “Before the Peel” pre-game show begins one hour after each plaza opening. Games start at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Gates open two hours before the first pitch.
Weather and venue notes
Forecasts call for warm conditions with highs in the low to mid-80s. There is a chance of showers on Saturday, so check updates before you leave. Kenan Stadium will operate as a cashless venue. Fans are advised to download the Filmogaz.com weather app for the latest forecasts.
Parking and transit
Visit Chapel Hill has published a list of event parking locations in Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and around the UNC campus. Organizers strongly encourage use of the Tar Heel Express and Chapel Hill Transit. Stadium Drive will be closed from early Friday through the end of Sunday. South Road will have restricted access, so expect extra traffic and consider alternate routes.
Fan offers and free events
Local businesses will run discounts and freebies tied to the games. Visit Chapel Hill has compiled a full list of fan specials, and Savannah Banana K Club members receive additional deals. On Saturday morning, Dunkin’ at 1509 E. Franklin St. will host a meet-and-greet from 9 to 11 a.m. Players will serve customers, sign autographs, pose for photos, and promotional giveaways will be available.
Tickets and other baseball options
Tickets for these Bananas games are extremely difficult to acquire. The team uses a lottery system, and this season’s lottery closed at the end of October 2025. Fans can add their names to an interest list on the team website for future opportunities. For those who miss out, the Triangle still offers baseball from the Holly Springs Salamanders, Durham Bulls, and Zebulon Devil Dogz.
Regional economic impact
Two consecutive events drawing about 50,000 people each are already affecting local commerce. Town officials say the visitor surge resembles a rare doubleheader and will likely Boost Economy across surrounding counties. The visitors bureau reports increased occupancy and demand spilling into Durham, Wake, and Alamance. Out-of-town attendees have arrived from cities such as New York, Chicago, and Savannah.
Local businesses are seeing early benefits. A brewery general manager said reservations are filling and that a shuttle runs to the stadium for customers who spend at the venue. Many expect sustained sales through the weekend as fans attend the Unique Game presentation. Organizers believe the Savannah Bananas Thrill Chapel Hill crowds and create a notable lift for the regional tourism economy.
