Partly Sunny
Highest listed rain chance in the game window is 18%.
Bring a rain layer and check delay updates before leaving.
Tickets, team gear, and weather gear should support the forecast, not distract from it.
Division Stakes Meet Early-Season Chill
The Chicago Cubs welcome the Arizona Diamondbacks to Wrigley Field on Friday, May 1st for a National League division matchup with real playoff implications already brewing. The Cubs sit at 19-12 at home and are riding a two-game winning streak, while the Diamondbacks arrive at 16-14 on the road after dropping their last game. In a division race, every series counts—and Mother Nature is serving up a cold, blustery Chicago welcome.
The Narrative
The Cubs have built a solid home record and momentum heading into May, but the Diamondbacks won’t be a pushover. Arizona’s road struggles (16-14) could work in Chicago’s favor, especially with the home crowd behind them. This is the kind of early-season divisional battle that separates contenders from pretenders. Both teams have time to course-correct, but a win here sends a message about who belongs in the NL Central conversation.
Weather: Bundle Up
Friday’s forecast is classic Chicago spring baseball—and not in a fun way. The National Weather Service calls for a high near 45°F with temperatures falling to around 43°F in the afternoon. There’s a slight chance of rain showers after 3 p.m. (18% chance), so don’t be shocked if the tarp comes out. Wind is the real story: expect north-northeast winds around 10 mph with gusts as high as 20 mph. That wind chill will make it feel colder than the thermometer says.
If you’re sticking around for a potential extra-inning game, tonight’s low drops to 37°F with a 15% chance of showers before 7 p.m.
What to Wear & Pack
Dress in layers. Start with a base layer—long sleeves are non-negotiable at 45°F. Pull on a Cubs hoodie or windbreaker over top; the gusts off Lake Michigan will cut through anything thin. Jeans and closed-toe shoes are your friends. A Chicago Cubs fitted cap keeps the sun and wind out of your eyes, and it’s the perfect way to rep your squad.
Bring a stadium blanket for your lap—it’s a game-changer when temps are dropping and you’re sitting still for three hours. A stadium rain poncho is smart insurance given that rain chance; it packs down small but saves you if showers do pop up after 3 p.m. Grab a waterproof stadium bag to keep your phone, wallet, and snacks dry.
Skip the sunscreen today—cloud cover and the angle of the sun at 1:20 p.m. mean you’re not getting scorched. Save that sunscreen stick SPF 50 for summer day games.
Tailgating Strategy
Arrive early to claim your spot. The 1:20 p.m. start time means you’ve got the morning to set up, grab breakfast, and settle in before first pitch. Wrigleyville will be buzzing, but crowds are lighter in early May than they are by June.
Food picks: Warm foods play better in 45°F weather than cold sandwiches. Bring a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate, grill up some brats or burgers, and keep hot dogs on the warming tray. Chili is a tailgating staple for a reason. Avoid anything that gets soggy—the wind and potential drizzle won’t help.
Gear setup: Use tent stakes or weights—those 20 mph gusts will test your canopy. Position your setup with your back to the north-northeast wind. Have extra blankets and jackets in the car; friends always show up underdressed.
Rep Your Cubs
Show your loyalty with a Chicago Cubs jersey and top it off with a Chicago Cubs fitted cap. If you want something lighter to layer, grab a Chicago Cubs t-shirt underneath. You’ll blend right in at Wrigley and stay warm doing it.
Get Your Tickets
Still need seats? The Cubs are hot at home and this is a division game—inventory moves fast. Check SeatGeek or StubHub for Chicago Cubs vs Arizona Diamondbacks tickets and lock in your spot before they’re gone.
First pitch: 1:20 p.m. CDT. Dress warm. Go Cubs Go.