Winterfest returns to Nationals Park

It's a couple weeks earlier than in previous years, and it's back on South Capitol Street for the first time in nearly a decade, but it's time again for Winterfest.

The Nationals' annual offseason gathering will have a different look and feel this year, with the event being held the first weekend in December and at Nationals Park after a steady run later in the month at the Washington Convention Center.

Among the new activities this year are opportunities for fans to hit in the Nationals' batting tunnel, pitch in the club's bullpen and tour the home clubhouse. There's a curling station, photo opportunities with the famed bullpen cart and a chance to go head to head with the Racing Presidents on their home turf.

There's also the return of Winterfest mainstays such as photo opportunities with players and coaches, baseball instructions from the aforementioned uniformed personnel and games and Q&As on the main stage.

The forecast isn't great; it's supposed to be cold and rainy today, though warmer and drier Sunday. Then again, anyone who attended a game at Nationals Park this season likely had to deal with rain at some point. Unlike those oft-delayed (or postponed) ballgames, Winterfest will take place rain or shine.

We'll have tons of interviews with Nationals players and coaches, manager Davey Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo, who is scheduled to speak today and certainly will be asked about Friday night's trade for Indians catcher Yan Gomes. So be sure to check the site throughout the weekend for updates and the latest from what should be a fun weekend at the ballpark.