Local baseball fans and community supporters in Vero Beach have a historic evening to look forward to this spring. The annual Jackie Robinson Celebration Game is set to return to the Jackie Robinson Training Complex on April 15, coinciding with Major League Baseball’s league-wide Jackie Robinson Day.
This event, which serves as a major fundraiser for the United Way of Indian River County, celebrates the enduring legacy of the baseball icon at the very site where history was made. The game will feature a matchup between the Jupiter Hammerheads and the Palm Beach Cardinals.
A Symbolic Start Time
The schedule for the evening is steeped in symbolism honoring Robinson. Gates at the complex, located at 3901 26th Street (formerly known as Holman Stadium), will open at 5 p.m. Following an opening ceremony at 6 p.m., the first pitch is scheduled for precisely 6:42 p.m. This unique start time pays tribute to the number 42 jersey worn by Robinson, who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.
Historical Significance and Community Impact
The venue itself holds deep historical importance. The complex was formerly the spring training home of the Dodgers and stood as the first integrated spring training facility in the South. Robinson himself played in the first official spring training game at the site on March 31, 1948.
Beyond honoring history, the game plays a vital role in supporting local residents today. United Way of Indian River County CEO Meredith Egan emphasized the dual purpose of the event:
“Jackie Robinson’s legacy challenges all of us to lead with courage, compassion, and a commitment to progress. This celebration brings people together through the power of sport while directly supporting the work that strengthens our community. It’s an opportunity to honor history and create impact right here at home.”
Rachelle Madrigal, Vice President at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, added that hosting the game at Holman Stadium serves as a reminder of the role sports play in advancing opportunity and understanding.
Ticket Information and Purchase Locations
Seating for the game is first-come, first-served. Attendees will have access to concessions and food trucks throughout the evening. Admission is free for children under the age of 3.
Residents are encouraged to purchase tickets early to secure the best pricing. Tickets can be purchased via the following methods:
- Online: Available at UnitedWayIRC.org starting January 31.
- In-Person (Jackie Robinson Training Complex): Starting February 3, tickets are available at 3901 26th St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- In-Person (United Way of Indian River County): Located at 1836 14th Ave. Tickets are expected to arrive the first week of February and will be sold Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm availability.
Pricing Structure:
- Early Bird (Jan. 31 – March 31): $10 per ticket.
- Standard Advance (April 14 – 15): $12 per ticket (before fees).
- Game Day (At the Gate): $15 per ticket (Credit Card only).
After a hiatus from 2020 through 2024 due to the pandemic and stadium renovations, the return of this game marks the restoration of a cherished community tradition that ran annually from 2014 to 2019.
