When Did Wrigley Field First Illuminate for Night Games- A Look Back at the Chicago Cubs’ Historic Moment

When did Wrigley Field get lights for night games? This question has intrigued many baseball fans, as the iconic stadium, home to the Chicago Cubs, has long been known for its classic, pre-modern atmosphere. The answer to this question brings us back to the early 1980s, a time when the baseball world was beginning to embrace the idea of night games.

The Chicago Cubs had been playing at Wrigley Field since 1916, and for decades, the stadium had been a beacon of tradition and nostalgia. However, as the 20th century came to a close, the demand for night games began to grow. Fans wanted the opportunity to catch games under the lights, and the Cubs were faced with the challenge of updating their beloved ballpark to accommodate this new demand.

In 1980, the Cubs’ ownership group decided to take action and installed temporary lights at Wrigley Field. These lights were designed to be portable and could be set up for night games as needed. The first night game at Wrigley Field took place on May 26, 1981, when the Cubs faced off against the San Diego Padres. The temporary lights were a hit with fans, and the success of the first night game paved the way for more to come.

However, the temporary lights were not a permanent solution. The Cubs knew that they needed a more permanent and reliable lighting system. In 1982, the team began working on a plan to install permanent lights at Wrigley Field. The project was met with some resistance from local residents and preservationists, who were concerned about the impact of lights on the historic stadium’s night sky and neighborhood.

After much debate and several setbacks, the Cubs finally received approval for the permanent lighting system in 1988. The new lights were designed to minimize glare and preserve the night sky, while still providing enough illumination for night games. The permanent lights were officially installed in 1989, and the first night game under the new lights was held on June 14, 1989, against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The installation of permanent lights at Wrigley Field marked a significant milestone for the Cubs and their fans. It allowed the team to host more games, including playoff games, and provided a new level of convenience for fans who could now enjoy baseball games under the lights. Although the lights have changed the experience of watching a game at Wrigley Field, they have also helped to ensure that the iconic stadium remains a vital part of the baseball world for generations to come.