Fireworks, Harry Potter, Reptiles And More Featured At ThunderBolts Opening Weekend

CRESTWOOD, IL — The Windy City ThunderBolts open the 2025 season with a bang this Friday, May 9, against the Washington Wild Things. Game time is at 6:35 p.m. at Ozinga Field, 14011 S. Kenton Ave., Crestwood. It’s also the season’s first post game fireworks show.

The first 500 fans 21 and over will receive a complimentary pint glass courtesy of Lakeshore Beverage, or a can koozie from JULIE, Inc.

The Bolts follow up with their annual Harry Potter Night starting at 6:05 p.m. Saturday, May 10. The first 500 kids age 12- and younger will receive a wizard wand. After missing last year, Harry will be in the house this summer. Meet and greet Harry Potter, Madam Hooch, Dumbledore and Hagrid. Dress like Harry or any of your favorite characters and participate in our pregame parade at 5:30 pm. Butter beer (for the adults & kids) will be sold at the park’s concession stands. After the game, stick around for fireworks. Kids can run the bases after every home game.

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Take your mom out to the ballgame on Mother's Day Sunday, May 11, when the ThunderBolts complete their series against the Wild Things. All moms in attendance will receive a free ticket to the game, hot dog and drink. It’s also the first JULIE Family Sunday. Make sure you get your JULIE Family Pack for JUST $49. Families will receive 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs, 4 chips, 4 sodas, 4 ice cream cups AND 4 souvenirs! (foam finger, hat, sunglasses, and thunderstick).

Also, this Sunday, families will be able to enjoy face painting from Marvelous Faces and live animals, courtesy of Dave DiNaso Traveling World of Reptiles, Big Run Wolf Ranch and Crosstown Exotics. After the game, all fans are allowed on the field to run the bases, play catch in the outfield and get autographs from your favorite ThunderBolts. Purchase your family pack by walking up to the box office or purchase tickets online.

All Tuesday through Friday home night games will start at 6:35 p.m., Saturday night games start at 6:05 p.m. and Sundays are 1:05 p.m. “School and Splash Days” will be a big part of summer at Ozinga Field, as usual. The 2025 season features nine 10:35 a.m. starts between May and August.
Here’s everything you need to plan a night (or day) at Ozinga Field:

2025 Season Schedule
2025 Full Promotional Schedule
2025 Hospitality Guide (Group Information)
2025 Digital Fundraising Information