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Savannah Bananas Coming to Kinnick StadiumSavannah Bananas Coming to Kinnick Stadium
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Savannah Bananas Coming to Kinnick Stadium

The University of Iowa, in partnership with the Iowa City Area Sports Commission, will welcome the professional exhibition baseball team Savannah Bananas on July 3 and July 4 in 2026 at Kinnick Stadium.

IOWA CITY, Iowa -- The University of Iowa, in partnership with the Iowa City Area Sports Commission, will welcome the professional exhibition baseball team Savannah Bananas on July 3-4, 2026, at Kinnick Stadium. Both games will start at 7 p.m. (CT).

The Savannah Bananas have their own version of baseball called Banana Ball, which includes on-field antics like choreographed dances, crazy rules, trick plays, fun props and constant crowd interaction to keep fans engaged.

Main stand tickets to this outdoor event will be sold through the Savannah Bananas and its ticketing platform. Fans interested in obtaining tickets to the event are encouraged to join the ticket lottery before it closes at 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Oct. 31, 2025. Joining the list does not guarantee the opportunity to buy tickets. A random drawing will take place before the event for the chance to purchase available tickets. If selected, fans will have an opportunity to continue through the verification process.   

“Kinnick is more than a stadium, it is a stage for unforgettable moments. From hosting the first outdoor wrestling meet in NCAA history, to welcoming record-breaking crowds for an outdoor women’s basketball game, our venue has long been a place where tradition meets innovation. We believe the Savannah Bananas’ unique brand of baseball and entertainment will be a perfect addition to that legacy.”

Beth Goetz, Henry B. and Patricia B. Tippie Director of Athletics Chair

“One of the most meaningful aspects of hosting this event at Kinnick is the proximity to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital,” said UI President Barbara Wilson. “The tradition of 'The Wave' -- where 70,000 fans wave to the children watching from the hospital’s upper floors -- is one of the most beloved moments in college sports. We are thrilled to incorporate this powerful gesture into the Bananas’ visit, creating a moment of joy and connection for patients and families who inspire us every day.”

The announcement of Iowa City and Kinnick Stadium was made by 8-year-old Hugh Harvey of Donahue, Iowa. The Savannah Bananas flew Harvey and his family to Savannah, Georgia, for the live team announcement. Harvey and everyone in attendance at Grayson Stadium participated in a special ‘Iowa Wave’ to patients and their families at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital following the announcement.

In December 2023, Harvey was diagnosed with High-Risk Neuroblastoma. Having endured multiple surgeries, countless rounds of chemotherapy, two stem cell transplants, more than 20 rounds of radiation and immunotherapy, Harvey has beaten several challenges with the help from his healthcare team from Stead Family Children’s Hospital. In May 2025, Harvey was able to ring the bell and is cancer free.

“Our community stands ready to support the University of Iowa in every way possible to make this experience the most memorable of them all,” said Josh Schamberger, president of Think Iowa City and the Iowa City Area Sports Commission. “We look forward to both the challenge and opportunity.”

The Savannah Bananas were officially founded in 2016 as a college summer league team that played in the Coastal Plain League. In 2022, the Bananas broke away from the league and became independent.