What Happened to Wrigley Field?
Wrigley Field, the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs and the second-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, has undergone extensive modernization while meticulously preserving its historic charm. Since its construction in 1914, it has evolved from a baseball-only venue to a multi-purpose entertainment hub, with significant renovations like the '1060 Project' completed in 2020, and continues to host a diverse array of events and ongoing developments in its surrounding Wrigleyville neighborhood as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Wrigley Field remains a vibrant and active Major League Baseball stadium, serving as the beloved home of the Chicago Cubs. Following the completion of the multi-year '1060 Project' in 2020, which modernized facilities while retaining its historic character, the ballpark continues to host a full schedule of Cubs games, major concerts, and other events throughout 2026. Recent developments include the approval of new advertising signs in Wrigleyville in June 2026 and ongoing discussions around the Cubs' 2026 season trade deadline strategy.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Opened as Weeghman Park
The ballpark, designed by Zachary Taylor Davis, opened as Weeghman Park, home to the Chicago Whales of the Federal League.
Chicago Cubs Move In
After the Federal League folded, Charles Weeghman bought the Chicago Cubs and moved them to his ballpark.
Renamed Cubs Park
The stadium was renamed Cubs Park after William Wrigley Jr. acquired a minority stake in the team.
Renamed Wrigley Field
The ballpark was officially renamed Wrigley Field, honoring team owner William Wrigley Jr.
Ivy Planted on Outfield Walls
The iconic ivy was planted on the outfield brick walls, becoming one of Wrigley Field's most recognizable features.
Lights Installed, First Night Game
Wrigley Field, the last MLB park to do so, installed lights, hosting its first official night game.
Ricketts Family Acquires Cubs and Wrigley Field
The Ricketts family purchased a 95% interest in the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field, initiating a new era of ownership and investment.
The '1060 Project' Renovations Begin
A $575 million, multi-year renovation project, known as the '1060 Project,' began to modernize the ballpark while preserving its historic elements.
Gallagher Way Plaza Completed
The two-acre Gallagher Way mixed-use entertainment district, adjacent to Wrigley Field, was completed, providing a year-round community space.
National Historic Landmark Status
Wrigley Field was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significant place in American history and culture.
Cubs Open 2026 Season at Wrigley Field
The Chicago Cubs commenced their 2026 MLB season with a home game against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field.
New Advertising Signs Approved for Wrigleyville
Chicago aldermen approved the Cubs' plan to add three new advertising signs on buildings overlooking Wrigley Field, part of the Ricketts family's ongoing development strategy.
First Comedy Event Hosted by John Mulaney
Comedian John Mulaney headlined the 'Mister Whatever Tour' at Wrigley Field, marking the first-ever comedy event hosted at the historic ballpark.
Cubs Active in 2026 Season, Trade Deadline Discussions
As of today, the Chicago Cubs are in the midst of their 2026 season, with ongoing discussions and decisions surrounding the MLB trade deadline, including potential moves involving players like Pedro Ramirez.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Wrigley Field, originally known as Weeghman Park, first opened its gates in 1914 as the home of the Chicago Whales of the Federal League. The Chicago Cubs moved into the ballpark in 1916, and it was officially renamed Wrigley Field in 1926 after chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. acquired control of the team. Over the decades, it became synonymous with classic baseball, known for its distinctive ivy-covered outfield walls, hand-operated scoreboard, and the absence of night games until lights were finally installed in 1988.
The stadium's enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance tradition with necessary modernization. A significant turning point came in 2009 when the Ricketts family acquired the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field, initiating a long-term strategy to enhance both the ballpark and the surrounding Wrigleyville neighborhood. This led to the ambitious '1060 Project,' a $575 million, five-year renovation effort that commenced after the 2014 season and was substantially completed by 2019, with final elements extending into early 2020. The project introduced new videoboards, premium clubs, expanded seating, improved player facilities, and structural upgrades, all while meticulously preserving the ballpark's historic character. Adjacent to the stadium, the Gallagher Way plaza was completed in 2017, transforming the area into a year-round community and entertainment district.
In 2020, Wrigley Field received National Historic Landmark status, further cementing its place in American history. As of July 31, 2026, Wrigley Field remains a bustling hub of activity. The Chicago Cubs opened their 2026 season at the Friendly Confines on March 26, 2026, and are actively competing, with trade deadline decisions, including discussions around players like Pedro Ramirez, being a key focus for the front office.
Beyond baseball, Wrigley Field continues its role as a premier concert venue, hosting a variety of major acts in 2026, including Mumford & Sons, RÜFÜS DU SOL, John Mulaney (marking the first comedy event at the venue), Noah Kahan, and the Savannah Bananas baseball exhibition. In September 2026, it is also scheduled to host the BIG 10 x SEC Volleyball Challenge. The surrounding Wrigleyville area is also seeing ongoing development, with aldermen approving plans in June 2026 for new advertising signs on buildings overlooking the ballpark, part of the Ricketts family's strategy to maximize revenue and integrate properties into club operations. Additionally, residential developments are moving forward in the neighborhood, reflecting continued investment and evolution around the historic stadium.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Wrigley Field made different choices?