Being one of the oldest stadiums in the game, Yankee stadium is not about modern amenities, it is about tradition. While other stadiums have changed the playing field to artificial turf, Yankee Stadium still has a natural grass playing field. The Stadium has changed little over the years. The white fazade above the bleachers in centerfield still glistens in the summer sunlight. The fans still have the same ritual of rejecting caught balls from the bat of opposing players by throwing the balls back out on the field. Players sign autographs before the game just as their heroes did for them when they were children. Yankee Stadium is a place where the fans can revel in the history of America's pastime. A place where records have been broken, legends have been made, and moments have transcended time. .
Visiting Yankee Stadium is a must-experience for any baseball fan. As a fan passes through the metal turnstile, the loud, deep voice of a vendor resonates in the fan's ear as he announces, "Programs! Scorecards! Get your programs here!" Looking around reveals to each fan that Yankee Stadium is packed like Grand Central Station during the holidays. Excited fans frantically rush by as though they are running late for a train. Upon taking one's very first step into the stadium, emotions of awe, anticipation, and excitement drastically heighten, taking over one's body.
Over the years fans have adopted different pre-game rituals. The sweet smells of roasted peanuts, buttered popcorn, and hotdogs lure some fans to the food stand. The great variety of food and beverages leaves many unsure exactly what to order. Hotdogs always seem to be the bestseller and fans never hesitate to pile on the mustard, relish, ketchup, and sauerkraut. Fans attempt to quench their thirst by consuming beers as if threats of prohibition loom in the air. Others patiently stand in line at the restrooms, waiting for a chance to relieve themselves of several pre-game beers.
