News Summary
As the Philadelphia Phillies enter the playoffs, local businesses are reaping the benefits of heightened fan enthusiasm. Customer traffic and sales have surged, with some establishments reporting increases of up to 40%. The team’s ‘Red October’ has left retailers, restaurants, and bars bustling with activity. Special game-day events and unique merchandise are creating a festive atmosphere, and additional transportation services are being provided to accommodate eager fans. With various activities planned around the playoff games, the city is fully embracing the postseason excitement.
Philadelphia businesses are experiencing a significant economic boost as the Phillies embark on their playoff journey, marking the much-anticipated ‘Red October.’ With heightened excitement, local establishments report a surge in customer traffic and revenue as fans gear up for postseason baseball.
Christopher Mullins Jr., owner of McGillin’s Olde Ale House in Center City, expects a bustling weekend as throngs of fans flock to the streets before and after games. The influx of baseball enthusiasts is translating into an economic windfall, with local businesses seeing sales increases of up to 40% fueled by the demand for Red October merchandise. Kayla Egberts from Serendipity in Chestnut Hill noted that last Thursday night was particularly busy, demonstrating how the playoffs can directly benefit local retailers.
The palpable excitement surrounding the Phillies’ postseason run is motivating fans like Chris Richter, who actively seeks out special edition merchandise, including “Red October Phillies cookies” that are trending on social media. Retailers such as Windfall Gallery, represented by Cynthia Fillmore, are also benefiting from the atmosphere, experiencing a better performance in sales during a traditionally slow period when compared to the months of September and October.
The Phillies are set to play the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Saturday evening, with the first pitch scheduled for 6:38 p.m. To accommodate the increased fan turnout, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) is adding extra service for the games over the weekend, including six additional sports express trains.
Citizens Bank Park is enhancing the game-day experience with special concession offerings that cater to the autumn theme, including pumpkin spice boneless wings and a pumpkin cold brew. New menu items also feature a dulce de leche milkshake paired with an apple cider donut, showcasing innovation aimed at engaging fans during the playoffs.
In addition to food, the stadium is looking to participate in popular social media trends, as executive chef Vonnie Negron highlights the “9-9-9 challenge.” Meanwhile, the New Era Phillies Team Store has unveiled new merchandise that includes assorted apparel and collectibles tailored to ‘Red October.’
Prior to Game 1, a postseason block party will be hosted at Citizens Bank Park, open to attendees without requiring a game ticket. The block party promises a festive atmosphere with entertainment such as DJ HBK, a Ferris wheel, bungee jumping, face painting, cornhole games, and food trucks. Gates for this event will open at 4:08 p.m., where fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 6 p.m. for player introductions, which will include showcasing the 50 state flags.
Special festivities will also include Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt throwing the ceremonial first pitch and the national anthem performed by Tasia Jungbauer. The seventh-inning stretch will feature a performance of “God Bless America” by a captain from the Delaware State Police.
As the city gears up for the playoff games, the Rally for Red October bus tour is returning to various locations throughout the Philadelphia area, further amplifying the excitement surrounding the Phillies as they strive to advance in the postseason.
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Additional Resources
- MLB: Red October On Deck Game
- 6abc: Phillies Hold Red October Bus Tour
- CBS News: Citizens Bank Park Red October
- App.com: It’s Red October for the Phillies
- Google Search: Philadelphia Phillies Red October
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
