While the likes of World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and Félix Auger-Aliassime are thrilling spectators on the court, fans will have plenty of entertainment to enjoy around the grounds at the 2023 National Bank Open presented by Rogers. That’s thanks to the return of 407 ETR Family Weekend and the introduction of several new on-site activations and theme days.
407 ETR FAMILY WEEKEND RETURNS
With free entry to the grounds on qualifying weekend (August 5-6), families will have the chance to enjoy a wide range of activities, from face painting, arts and crafts, and an inflatable obstacle course to a caricature artist and the fan-favourite air guitar contest. As part of the Mental Timeout initiative supported by Beneva, visitors can also try out dog therapy, yoga sessions and have the chance to sign Tennis Canada’s Positive Court Pledge or write a positivity postcard to their favourite player.
Tennis enthusiasts can also catch a glimpse of the Davis Cup trophy in the VIP Lounge, which is open to all guests during Family Weekend, as the iconic silverware concludes its nationwide tour. Meanwhile, a ball hockey game on Sunday, August 6 featuring a group of NHL stars and top ATP players, refereed by Sportsnet’s Ron MacLean, is one not to miss. Younger fans can also meet some of their favourite TV characters, including members of the PAW Patrol, Spongebob Squarepants, Toopy and Binoo, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
“We absolutely love the tradition of opening up our site on qualifying weekend and making it free for families to attend, watch some great tennis and enjoy everything going on at Sobeys Stadium,” said Karl Hale, Tournament Director of the National Bank Open – Toronto. “This year, we’ve really elevated our game from a fan engagement standpoint, not only for 407 ETR Family Weekend, which is set to be bigger and better than ever, but for the rest of the week too.”
Visit the 407 ETR Family Weekend web page for the full list of activities, and don’t forget to claim your free tickets!
TENNIS CANADA INTRODUCES ALL-NEW FAN ZONE
Throughout the week of main draw action (August 7-13), there’s still plenty to see and do. A brand-new dedicated Tennis Canada Fan Zone will house the 407 ETR Fastest Serve, Ball Crew Challenge and Sporting Life Knock ‘em Down game. For keen young tennis players, Tennis Canada’s latest youth program will be showcased at the Rogers Mini Tennis activation, while fans can also immerse themselves in a whole new world of innovation at the VR Watch and VR Play presented by motorola razr booths.
Fans can also enjoy live music performances on the main stage from artists including Jade Hilton, CJ Cooper, Rob Watts, Gyles, Mike Ferfolia, The Blackstones and Amber & Viera.
AN ELEVATED FOOD & BEVERAGE EXPERIENCE
The National Bank Open will also introduce several exciting food and beverage offerings this year. The Dirty Devil Dragon Fruit Lemonade will be the tournament’s signature drink and with any purchase of the cocktail at the Dirty Devil Vodka patio, fans will receive a signature cup to take home. Guests can also indulge in the Tennis Canada Signature Beavertail – a bespoke dessert made just for the NBO. There’s also the return of the $5 kids’ menu as well as in-seat service in the lower bowl, a new grab-and-go concession called ‘Quick Serve’ and the expansion of express ordering to multiple locations, providing affordable and convenient options.
Fans are also encouraged to visit the various retail locations onsite to grab their National Bank Open and Tennis Canada merchandise.
THEME & SPONSOR DAYS AT THE 2023 NATIONAL BANK OPEN
This year’s themed and sponsored sessions at the National Bank Open include Pride Day on Wednesday, August 9. Tennis Canada will welcome a group from the Canadian Gay Open (CGO) and many others from the 2SLGBTQ+ community to Sobeys Stadium. A limited number of pride-themed wristbands and flags will be distributed to fans on a first-come, first-served basis at the site’s entrance, while guests are encouraged to visit the You Can Play booth to learn more about Pride. Fans can save 35% on Pride Day tickets using the promo code 23NBPRIDE.
During Monday’s day session, we will celebrate a new partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto. A group of ‘Littles’ and ‘Bigs’ will be in attendance and will conduct the coin tosses for the day session matches. Later, attention will switch to Opening Night presented by Sobeys, during which a ceremony will take place to honour Team Canada’s 2022 Davis Cup champions.
Click here to see the full list of themed and sponsor days.
JOIN US AT RENDEZVIEWS FOR THE OFFICIAL NATIONAL BANK OPEN VIEWING PARTY
For the first time ever, fans are invited to extend their National Bank Open experience by joining us at RendezViews, described by blogTO as “Toronto’s most epic outdoor patio ever” and located in the heart of downtown Toronto, from August 9-13 for the tournament’s official viewing party. The next-best thing to being at Sobeys Stadium, RendezViews will show the must-see matches on its giant screen, including the semi-finals and final. Entry is free and guests can book a table via this link.
Since its inception in 2020, RendezViews – at 229 Richmond St. W, between John St. and Duncan St. - has become an award-winning destination and has welcomed roughly 325,000 visitors. It is the go-to place for Torontonians to watch sports, attend cultural festivals and celebrate special occasions. Fans who attend the official NBO viewing party will be in with a chance of winning tickets to Sobeys Stadium to see their tennis heroes in the flesh.
Opening times are below:
Wed., Aug 9 – Sat., Aug 12: 4:00 p.m.
Sun., Aug 13: 12:00 p.m.
Related news
