Pirates see record attendance at PirateFest

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced today that the total attendance at PirateFest for the three-day weekend event was 16,986, an increase of more than 400 fans versus last year. It is the largest crowd since moving the annual event to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in 2003. The previous attendance record was 16,839 set two years ago.

“Coming off a tremendously successful Pirates Winter Caravan, the strong show of support from our fans this weekend has been unbelievable. We cannot express enough the appreciation everyone within the organization has for our fans enthusiastic and passionate support,” said Pirates President Frank Coonelly. “Perhaps most exciting to see was the impact that the passion of our fans had on our players. Our players are encouraged and energized by the support and are determined to bring Postseason baseball back to Pittsburgh in 2013.”

The Pirates have also seen a strong demand for individual and season tickets over the weekend. Fans interested in securing seats for Opening Day and other high demand games can purchase full, half, 20 or 10-game season ticket packages online at www.pirates.com or by calling 1-800-BUY-BUCS.