Celebration Planned for Tigers 75th Anniversary in Lakeland

The Detroit Tigers and City of Lakeland announced today that a full calendar of special events is planned in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Spring Training in Lakeland, FL. This anniversary week will take place February 22-27, 2011 in Lakeland, Winter Home to the Detroit Tigers and commemorate the longest standing relationship in Major League Baseball between a franchise and host city.

The week-long occasion promises many memorable moments while generating significant community goodwill. The following special public and VIP events include:

Tuesday, Feb. 22 The 65th Annual Tigers Barbecue (hosted by the Chamber of Commerce)

Wednesday, Feb. 23 The Tigers Diamond Gala

Thursday, Feb. 24 The 16th Annual Major League Scramble (Cleveland Heights Golf Course)

Friday, Feb. 25 Detroit Tigers vs. Florida Southern College - Game Time 1:05 p.m.

"Tigers On the Town" (Downtown event featuring live entertainment, activities, etc.)

Sunday, Feb. 27 Opening Day (75th Anniversary of Spring Training) Game Time 1:05 p.m.

Proceeds from the Gala and Scramble will benefit the Detroit Tigers Foundation of Florida to benefit local area non-profits including Boys & Girls Club of Lakeland/Mulberry, Sunflower Preschool Playground, The First Tee of Lakeland, and Polk Sheriff's Charities.

Tickets to the Tigers Barbecue, Tigers' Diamond Gala and foursomes in the Major League Scramble are now on sale at www.tigers75.com. Individual Spring Training tickets will go on sale January 8 at 10am are available at tigers.com/springtraining.

For information on the Detroit Tigers 75th Anniversary Spring Training please contact the Tigers Spring Training Headquarters at (863) 686-8075.

*A special discounted room rate of $109 per night has been secured for The Tigers 75th Anniversary at Downtown Lakeland's Terrace Hotel. To receive this rate, call The Terrace Hotel at (888) 644-8400 and mention "Detroit Tigers". Limited rooms available.