What to Expect as Banana Ball Kicks Off at Walt Disney World This Weekend

Banana Ball has officially arrived at Walt Disney World, and the first games at ESPN Wide World of Sports are happening tonight and tomorrow, May 29 and 30, 2026.

If you’re heading out for one of the matchups between the Loco Beach Coconuts and the Party Animals, it’s not just a “show up and watch the game” situation. Disney shared a closer look at how the experience is set up, and it starts well before the first pitch.

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Hours ahead of the game, fans are being welcomed into a pre-game plaza outside the stadium. This is where things really get going. Players are out there interacting with guests, there’s live entertainment, and yes, plenty of dancing. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s very on-brand for Banana Ball.

There’s also an area called Loco Beach LIVE set up near the stadium, where guests can catch appearances from players, mascots, and a few surprise moments mixed in with music and merchandise. If you’re planning to go, this is one of those times when getting there early actually matters.

And for Disney, this is a bit of a milestone. While Banana Ball has popped up in other Disney-related events before, this is the first time teams from the Banana Ball Championship League are actually playing at Walt Disney World.

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If you’re already on your way, or heading out later, here’s the part you’ll want to pay attention to:

Once you’ve arrived, here are a few things to keep in mind before entering The Stadium:

  • Prior to the event, download the Fans First Tickets Management App on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Once you sign in, you can view and access your tickets, add to your digital wallet, transfer tickets to friends and family, and scan in quickly once passing through the gates on gameday.
  • Ticket Help stations are available at each ticket scanning location outside of The Stadium.
  • A valid parking pass will be required for all vehicles. Passes must be purchased in advance and will not be available on-site at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. To purchase standard parking, please check out ESPNWWOS.com.
  • All persons, bags, parcels, clothing, and other items may be subject to screen/security checks. This event has a clear bag policy (plastic, vinyl, or soft PVC) no bigger than 12″x6″x12″ or Small Clutch Bags (6″x9″) not required to be transparent. Exceptions will be made for diaper bags and bags containing essential medical equipment.
  • Folding chairs, tents, and coolers are not permitted. Blankets & Beach Towels (no larger than 8′ x 8′) are permitted.
  • Concession stands and food carts are located throughout The Stadium, offering a variety of options to devour. There will also be a selection of alcoholic beverages available for purchase on site, but any outside alcohol, flasks, and cans are not permitted.
  • Banana Ball merchandise tents are all cashless.

Banana Ball has built its whole identity around keeping things moving and keeping fans involved, and it looks like Disney is leaning into that instead of trying to tone it down.

If you’re going this weekend, expect a full experience, not just a game.

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Senior Editor for The DIS and DCL Fan | Disney Vacation Club Member | Thrilled to have been a '13/'14 planDisney Panelist | Lover of all things Disney; the Magic of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and especially Disney Cruise Line | ºoº

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