Banana Ball, the innovative baseball format known for blending sports with entertainment, is scheduled to arrive at Walt Disney World Orlando in 2026. This announcement confirms that the unique sporting event will take place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, bringing its fast-paced style to a new audience.
The specific dates for the games are May 29 and May 30, 2026. Fans can expect to see the Loco Beach Coconuts compete against the Party Animals, two of the league's teams, in what promises to be a high-energy event.
Key Takeaways
- Banana Ball will debut at Walt Disney World Orlando in 2026.
- Games are scheduled for May 29 and 30 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
- The Loco Beach Coconuts will play against the Party Animals.
- Banana Ball features unique rules designed for fast-paced, entertaining games.
- The league, which began in 2018, now includes eight teams.
Banana Ball's Disney Debut
The arrival of Banana Ball at Walt Disney World represents a significant expansion for the league. The announcement was made during the Banana Ball City Selection Show on Thursday, broadcast live across multiple platforms. These included ESPN2, ESPN+, Disney+, and the Banana Ball YouTube channel.
The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, a 220-acre facility, will host the games. Specifically, The Stadium within the complex will be the venue. This stadium offers more than 9,500 seats, along with four luxury skyboxes and open-air suites, providing ample space for spectators.
"Banana Ball is known for its blend of athleticism and entertainment, creating a unique experience for fans," stated a Disney Parks blog post. "The games at ESPN Wide World of Sports will bring this excitement to a premier sports destination."
What is Banana Ball?
Banana Ball is a modified version of baseball designed for entertainment and speed. It aims to deliver a two-hour, non-stop experience, drawing comparisons to the exhibition style of the Harlem Globetrotters in basketball. The format includes several distinct rules that differentiate it from traditional baseball.
These rules focus on keeping the game moving and encouraging aggressive play. For example, there are no walks allowed, and batters can attempt to steal first base. If a fan catches a foul ball, it results in an out, directly involving the audience in the game's outcome.
Fast Facts: Banana Ball Rules
- Win the Inning, Get the Point: The team that scores the most runs in an inning gets a point.
- No Stepping Out: Batters cannot step out of the batter's box.
- No Bunting: Bunting is not permitted.
- Batters Can Steal First: A batter can steal first base on any pitch not caught by the catcher.
- No Walks Allowed: A fourth ball means the batter runs to first, and all fielders must run to cover the bases.
- No Mound Visits: Pitchers cannot be visited by coaches or teammates on the mound.
- Fan Catch Out: If a fan in the stands catches a foul ball, it is an out.
- Showdown Tie Breaker: A special format to resolve tied games.
- Banana Ball Challenge Rule: Teams can challenge certain calls.
- Golden Batter Rule: A specific rule for late-game situations.
Growth and Popularity of Banana Ball
Banana Ball's journey began in 2018 with its first test game at Lander University. Since then, it has grown significantly, gaining a large following, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok. The Savannah Bananas, the original team, have become a well-known name in sports entertainment.
In 2024, the Savannah Bananas embarked on a nationwide tour. They played against various teams, including the Firefighters, Party Animals, and Texas Tailgaters. This tour took them to iconic baseball venues across the United States, such as Fenway Park in Boston, Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, and Angel Stadium in Anaheim.
These visits introduced Banana Ball to new audiences at family-friendly destinations, further boosting its popularity. The league has expanded to include eight teams. Two new teams, including the Loco Beach Coconuts, are set to debut in 2026, indicating continued growth.
League Expansion
The Banana Ball league has expanded its roster of teams to meet growing demand. The addition of new teams like the Loco Beach Coconuts reflects the increasing interest in this unique baseball format. This expansion allows more cities and venues to host Banana Ball games, reaching a broader fan base.
The Teams of Banana Ball
The league currently features several teams, each contributing to the entertainment value of Banana Ball. The teams are designed to have distinct identities, enhancing the showmanship of the games.
The teams involved in the Banana Ball circuit include:
- Savannah Bananas
- Party Animals
- Firefighters
- Texas Tailgaters
- Loco Beach Coconuts (debuting in 2026)
- Indianapolis Clowns
The Loco Beach Coconuts will make their debut in 2026, adding a new competitor to the lineup. This expansion aims to keep the league fresh and exciting for its growing audience.
The decision to bring Banana Ball to Walt Disney World aligns with Disney's strategy of combining sports and entertainment. The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex frequently hosts various athletic events, making it a suitable location for this type of spectacle.
Impact on Tourism
Hosting Banana Ball at Walt Disney World is expected to attract a significant number of visitors. Many families and sports fans may plan trips to Orlando specifically to attend these games. This could lead to an increase in tourism revenue for the region, benefiting local businesses and the hospitality sector.
According to tourism experts, events held at Disney properties often draw national and international attention. This exposure can further elevate the profile of Banana Ball, introducing it to a diverse global audience who are already visiting for leisure and entertainment.
The collaboration between Banana Ball and Disney is a strategic move for both entities. For Banana Ball, it provides access to a world-renowned entertainment hub. For Disney, it adds another unique and engaging attraction to its diverse offerings at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
The games are designed to be family-friendly, appealing to a wide demographic. This focus on inclusive entertainment is consistent with both the Banana Ball brand and the Disney experience. Spectators can expect a lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and various on-field antics alongside the baseball action.
The success of previous Banana Ball tours, which drew large crowds at major stadiums, suggests that the Disney World event will also be highly popular. Tickets for Banana Ball games often sell out quickly due to high demand.
