Orioles to celebrate Fan Appreciation Week with slate of promotions

The Orioles today announced plans to celebrate Fan Appreciation Week, beginning Saturday, September 19, and lasting through the final game of the 2020 regular season on Sunday, September 27. The weeklong slate of promotions will feature exclusive giveaways, surprise player engagement opportunities, and unique virtual experiences designed to bring the magic of Oriole Park to fans at home as a "thank you" for their support throughout such an unprecedented season.

"Although we have not been able to welcome fans to Oriole Park this season, we have felt their tremendous support all year long," said Jennifer Grondahl, Senior Vice President, Community Development and Communications. "During such challenging times, the support of our fans means the world to us. We are so very grateful to each and every Orioles fan - in Baltimore, Sarasota, and throughout Birdland - who has cheered on the team from home this season, as well as to the many fans who have volunteered to serve their communities during a time of great need."

As part of Fan Appreciation Week, the Orioles will come directly to the fans with the "Thank You, Fans" Tour during the final homestand of the regular season. The Oriole Bird, who was recently inducted into the National Mascot Hall of Fame, will travel through Birdland in his Bird-themed van to greet fans and distribute Orioles giveaway t-shirts. Fans may receive a shirt if they are wearing a mask and observing physical distancing by staying at least six feet apart. On Saturday, September 19, the Bird will visit various neighborhoods in downtown Baltimore starting at noon. During the following week, the Bird will surprise community partners by providing volunteers and staff with Orioles giveaways.

Prior to the final home game of the season on Sunday, September 20, a randomly selected Birdland Member will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The pitch, which was filmed this week, will be shown at Oriole Park at Camden Yards as well as on the MASN broadcast.

During Fan Appreciation Week, surprise messages from Orioles players, coaches, and staff will be shared with fans through MASN broadcasts, Orioles social media platforms, and more. Fans are encouraged to follow along with the Orioles social media platforms for interactive, family-friendly content, including the opportunity to receive digital autographs from a surprise Orioles player. Fans will also be able to request a custom Orioles phone wallpaper with their desired name, number, and jersey color as part of a special Fan Appreciation edition of #WallpaperWednesdays.

Throughout the year, fans across Birdland have selflessly volunteered, donated, and helped their communities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of Fan Appreciation Week, the Orioles will recognize and thank one volunteer from each of the more than 30 nonprofit organizations they have partnered with since the pandemic began in March. Organizations have nominated one individual to be recognized by the Orioles for Fan Appreciation Week. Volunteers will be sent a "Thank You" fan pack, and will also be featured in a special blog post on Orioles.com/BirdlandInsider. For additional information on the Orioles' community efforts in Baltimore and Sarasota, please visit Orioles.com/CommunityResources.