Opening Day 2026

The Cardinals open the 2026 season at Busch Stadium against the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday, March 26th at 3:15 pm CT.

Tickets start at just $49!

10:30 am – 1:00 pm - Official Cardinals Pep Rally – Busch II Infield at Ballpark Village

Featuring DJ Todd Thomas, Team Fredbird, Cardinals Alumni, The Red & Black Brass Band, ticket giveaways and more!

12:00 pm – Busch Stadium Gates Open – Welcome Back to Baseball Heaven!

12:00 pm – 12:55 pm – Cardinals BP

12:55 pm – 1:50 pm – Rays BP

2:30 pm – Official Pregame Ceremonies begin with the World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales

2:37 pm – Ford Mustang motorcade featuring Cardinals Hall of Famers

2:49 pm – Ford Truck motorcade featuring the 2026 Cardinals players, manager and coaches

3:05 pm – National Anthem, performed by the Red & Black Brass Band

3:10 pm – Ceremonial First Pitch

3:15 pm – Play Ball!

All times are approximate and weather permitting