This Marlins season, bring your bongos to the ballpark

The Miami Marlins season kicks off Thursday, and for the first time, fans will be encouraged to bring flags and musical instruments to the park.

Why it matters: The team is tapping into the city's Hispanic fanbase this season, hoping to bring the energy, excitement and "unforgettable atmosphere" found during the 2024 Serie del Caribe and 2023 World Baseball Classic.

• "We know how special baseball is for our community, many with roots in the Caribbean, and we are going to bring that passion and energy back in a special way," Caroline O'Connor, Marlins president of business 0perations, said in a news release earlier this month.

The big picture: Attendance at Marlins games has been lackluster in recent years, with the team failing to sell out its 2023 season opener by about 6,000 seats, the Miami Herald reported. (However, attendance last season was up 30% from the year prior, per a team spokesperson.)

• Team leadership is hoping changes to the rules will attract the large crowds that gathered for the Caribbean Series, which drew more than 30,000 spectators, many toting bongos, maracas, cowbells and other instruments.
• When asked how the high turnout of the series could benefit the Marlins, O'Connor told the Herald, "We know that a big part of this fanbase is here all the time and we really want them to come back to Marlins games."

State of play: The stadium is also changing up its menu offerings with its Béisbol Bundle.

• The all-you-can-eat package (starting at $52) includes premium seating and unlimited food and nonalcoholic drinks at the Caliente Grill Concession Stand.
• Also new this year is a gator chili topping for hot dogs and nachos, made with fresh ground alligator slow-cooked with Latin flavors, per the team.

Sign up for Axios Miami for free.