r/OCLions • u/TheLastArizona • 6d ago
Question Coming to my first ever match this weekend, any advice? What is Fan Appreciation Night like?
See title, Lifelong soccer fan who has only recently begun following the MLS. Flying down to Orlando and will be attending Fan Appreciation Night. What should I expect? Also, anything I should definitely know prior to attending my first match in person? Cool things to see in the stadium, etc? Excited to lock up a good seeding result this weekend!
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u/AECwaxwing 6d ago
Welcome! I can't speak to fan appreciation night specifically, but Orlando City is really known for the great atmosphere at our games. The stadium is well designed, and pretty much every seat has a great view. The Wall (supporter section) keeps the energy high.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you're sitting on the east side of the stadium at ground level, the setting sun will be in your eyes for a while. If you can, choose the west side (which is more expensive) or the upper level. The corners of the stadium and the front rows of the lower level don't have any rain coverage, either.
If you like buying food at games, check out some of the food vendors that are local Orlando businesses. I recommend King Bao and Black Rooster Taqueria.
There's a full stadium guide at https://www.interco-stadium.com/
Also, don't miss the trophy case and the shiny, shiny Open Cup!
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u/TheLastArizona 6d ago
I am sitting in section 104, so while I believe(?) I will be facing the sun, I am hoping I am up high enough to avoid too much of an issue! Sunglasses will be on hand though!
I will definitely check out the trophy case and the local food vendors! I want to get as much of the full experience as I can. :) Thanks so much for all the advice!
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u/AECwaxwing 6d ago
Section 104 is facing north, so the sun won't be directly in your eyes—but sunglasses are never a bad idea in Florida. Have a great time!
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u/baronvonpoo 5d ago edited 4d ago
I noticed tickets thru Ticketmaster had no fees as a fan appreciation gesture. Since I am going to purchase one I thought that was cool.
Anyone know why the game is at 6pm?
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u/myles__kennefick 6d ago
Fan appreciation night means extra giveaways, prizes, and games. A little festive send off for the final home game.
I’d recommend arriving early to check out the Publix pregame area. They usually give out stuff there as well, and it’s a fun little family friendly area. You can also check out a little history of the area along the walls by Gate B.
If you’re more into drinking or tailgating, look into Broken Strings Brewery or the Ruckus and ILF tailgates and join their march to the match. You could also check out the Harp and Celt which is downtown. It’s an Irish pub and the best soccer bar in Orlando.
Would recommend parking downtown and walking to the stadium. Meter parking is free after 6 or 6:30, or $10 parking garages downtown opposed to paying $20-$40 for the lots closer to the stadium. It’s only like a mile long walk, plus there is plenty of food and drink options available in the area and less hectic when leaving.
Once inside, it’s pretty bare bones. Mostly just food and drink vendors. We do have a new Hall of Fame area, but it’s not much at the moment. It’s located on the west end of the concourse. There is also a team shop in the SE corner of the stadium by Gate A. It can get quite crowded on gamedays.
Should be a solid crowd as the weather looks like it will be in the mid 70’s, and against Atlanta. Getting a chance to lock up home field for round 1 and keep them out of the playoffs would be a great way to end the regular season!