Spokane Indians vs. Boise

Even haters of our national pastime must acknowledge that there’s something special about the start of a new baseball season. Sitting in the stands of historic Avista Stadium with a cold beverage, watching a bunch of kids join forces on a new Spokane Indians squad, all of them with dreams of making their way to the big leagues — that’s as clear a mark of summer’s onset as any equinox. This year’s Indians team has a new manager in Matt Hagen, and a new squad getting to town just days before their home opener, but all the crowd camaraderie, ballpark shenanigans (dancing grounds crew!) and hot dogs you remember from years past will be there waiting. And for this Opening Night game, there’s a magnet giveaway and a postgame fireworks show, too.

Spokane Indians vs. Boise Hawks • Thu, June 15-Sat, June 17 and Mon, June 19 at 6:30 pm; Sun, June 19 at 3:30 pm • $5-$20 • Avista Stadium • 602 N. Havana • spokaneindians.com • 343-6886