In Yucatán, baseball is played and enjoyed with gusto. Attending a baseball game and watching the Leones de Yucatán, the local team, in the renowned Kukulcán Álamo stadium is lots of fun; not just because of what’s happening on the field, but because of the setting, the antics of Leonel, the team mascot, the huge variety of snacks, and of course the enthusiasm of all the fans.
Baseball is considered the “king of sports” in Yucatán. Their fans demonstrate this with the passion that they show when they support their team at the recently remodeled Kukulcán Álamo stadium.
Buying tickets is easy: you can buy them at the stadium ticket window a few hours prior to the game, or at the website www.leones.mx. Avid fans usually buy season’s tickets that have special prices and preferential seating at all the games in Mérida. The 2017 season’s games usually take place from Monday to Friday at 8 pm, on Saturday at 7 pm, and on Sunday at 6 pm. Check the calendar on the aforementioned website.
As soon as you get to the stadium, located on the east side of Mérida, if you bought season’s tickets you have access to the preferential parking area; if not, there is plenty of other parking and the staff will show you where you can safely leave your car, in an accessible area close to the entrance. Don’t forget to tip them.
The best place to sit is on the right side in the “butaca section,” where you will find a great family ambience and the best view of the game. You’ll also be able to watch Leonel, the team mascot, who has lots of energy and who loves to interact with the attendees. There is a host that keeps the energy up during the breaks, as well as the kiss cam, that shows romantic or funny moments among the fans.
If you are hungry, don’t worry! Some Mérida restaurants have branches there, or choose from the amazing variety that is offered right at your seat. The “piedras” (fried mixture with beans with onions and cabbage), the “kibis” (Lebanese snack), the Cuban “tortas” (large baguette sandwiches; one will be more than enough!), chicken wings, pizzas, fruit and veggie plates, and the famous pastries from “Don Miguelito,” a tradition that you must try, among other options for eating and drinking. The environment is very family-oriented and completely recommendable.
Be sure to drop into the official store, you can enter from the stadium and buy a T-shirt or Leonel and team souvenirs. The 2017 season has games from now until August, so you have a chance to enjoy this unique experience, and become the Leones’ newest fan!
By: Violeta H Cantarell
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