Reds Opening Day is here! Everything to know before the first pitch

However, the Cincinnati Reds play their first game of the 2026 regular season March 26 at Great American Ball Park, the start of a six-game homestand . While Opening Day is beloved by baseball fans nationwide, the day is particularly special in Cincinnati, where thousands of fans take to the streets to celebrate the Reds, the first professional baseball team , with a parade and other festivities before the home opener later that afternoon. Whether you're attending the celebrations in person or watching the game from home, here's everything you need to know about Opening Day 2026.

When is Opening Day for the Reds? March 26 against the Boston Red Sox . The home game at Great American Ball Park starts at 4:10 p.

m. Why do the Reds always open at home? The Reds have started every season in Cincinnati since 1876, except for 1877, 1885 and 1966 because of rain, 1990 for a baseball lockout and 1888 when the team was scheduled to start on the road for the only time.

There is no official rule stating the Reds must open their season at home. Instead, it's based mostly on geography and tradition. Cincinnati was once the southernmost city in the western batch of National League teams, so there was a better chance of warmer weather.