For the fifth year in a row, the San Diego Padres are working to help guide families through the gameday process ahead of the 2026 season.

SAN DIEGO — Families with sensory challenges can struggle with loud and crowded sporting events, but for the fifth year in a row, the San Diego Padres are working to help guide families through the gameday process. 

The San Diego Padres, Easterseals Disability Services and Autism Society San Diego (ASSD) hosted their annual “Behind-the-Scenes” preview event at Petco Park. 

Families were able to get an inside look into what a Padres gameday looks like. 

“There can be some sensory overload, maybe it’s too loud, maybe there’s too many people bumping into you. And for people with autism or other disabilities, it might feel a lot more intense than it does for someone who does not have that type of disability,” Michele Dew, the Easterseals Disability Services Regional Vice President of Therapy Services, said. 

Attendees experienced a “light” bag check, explored the ballpark and even participated in gameday activities in Power Alley and Gallagher Square, such as visiting a concession stand. 

Petco Park was the first ballpark on the West Coast to receive sensory inclusive certification, and in 2022, the Padres became the first team to host an event of this time. 

“In San Diego, we have a big military community. And there’s a lot of PTSD with those individuals, along with Autism, with kids. So we want to make sure that our fans have all the resources, they understand all the accessibility, resources and services we offer here at Petco Park, to make sure they have an outstanding experience, regardless of its a Padres game or a Petco Park event,” Ray Daryabigi, the Padres Vice President of Guest Experience and Security, said. 

In addition to this behind-the-scenes experience, the Padres and ASSD are bringing the annual Autism Acceptance Night presented by Easterseals Disability Services to Petco Park on Thursday, April 16, when the Padres take on the Seattle Mariners. 

Fans who purchase a dedicated Autism Acceptance Night Theme Game package will receive a ticket to the game, a limited-edition Padres-themed hat and a portion of the Theme Game proceeds will be donated to Easterseals Disability Services and local community groups. 

To learn more, visit www.padres.com/themegames.