Twins Kick Off Opening Day With Breakfast on the Plaza

Longtime fan Joan Rivett leads the annual tradition ahead of Twins-Rays matchup.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:22pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting a crowd of baseball fans, hot dogs, and the architecture of Target Field, all rendered in a loose, energetic style that captures the excitement of Opening Day.The annual Breakfast on the Plaza tradition kicks off the Twins' home opener with a burst of energy and team spirit.Minneapolis Today

The Minnesota Twins kicked off their 2026 home opener with the annual Breakfast on the Plaza event at Target Field, where longtime fan Joan Rivett was once again first in line to enjoy hot dogs with Twins staff. The Twins will take on the Tampa Bay Rays in a rare Friday afternoon game, with Bailey Ober making his first Opening Day start for the home team. Fans can also enjoy a new pregame happy hour with $2 beers and food options before first pitch.

Why it matters

The Twins' home opener is a beloved annual tradition in Minneapolis, marking the start of a new baseball season and bringing the community together around the team. This year's festivities, including the return of the Breakfast on the Plaza, hold extra significance after the passing of longtime fan Joan Rivett, who was a fixture at the event.

The details

The Breakfast on the Plaza event featured Twins staff handing out hot dogs to fans, including Minneapolis resident Joan Rivett, who has been first in line for the tradition for years. The Twins will then host the Tampa Bay Rays in their home opener, with Bailey Ober making his first Opening Day start for the team. In addition to the game, fans can enjoy a new pregame happy hour at Target Field featuring $2 beers and food options from 1:00-3:10 p.m. before first pitch.

  • The Breakfast on the Plaza event took place on the morning of April 3, 2026, ahead of the Twins' home opener.
  • The Twins-Rays game is scheduled for a rare Friday afternoon start at 3:10 p.m. on April 3, 2026.
  • The new pregame happy hour will be available at all Friday and Saturday home games throughout the 2026 season.

The players

Joan Rivett

A longtime Minnesota Twins fan who was first in line for the annual Breakfast on the Plaza event at Target Field.

Bailey Ober

The starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins in their 2026 home opener against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Joe Boyle

The starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays in their matchup against the Minnesota Twins.

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What they’re saying

“It's our family tradition, Jimmy. It's so cold, i's so cold, but I only live eight blocks from here.”

— Joan Rivett, Longtime Twins fan

What’s next

The Twins and Rays will continue their three-game series at Target Field on Saturday and Sunday.

The takeaway

The Twins' home opener is a cherished annual event that brings the Minneapolis community together to celebrate the start of a new baseball season. Despite the passing of longtime fan Joan Rivett, the Breakfast on the Plaza tradition lives on, underscoring the team's deep connection with its loyal fanbase.