Chicago White Sox launch second annual national anthem contest

CHICAGO (WGN) — For the second year in a row, the Chicago White Sox are putting a call out to fans who can flex their vocal cords in the 2025 edition of their National Anthem contest.

Beginning Monday, fans can submit an audition video online at whitesox.com/anthem for a chance to be invited to live, in-person auditions, held Thursday, July 24, at Rate Field.

Following these final-round auditions, one grand-prize-winning standout performer will earn the opportunity to sing the National Anthem live at the ballpark ahead of the White Sox evening game on Monday, Aug. 11, against the Detroit Tigers.

A panel of celebrity judges — including returning 2024 winner Destinee Feliciano, White Sox great and 1980 American League Rookie of the Year Ron Kittle and local television sports reporter Jori Parys — will evaluate finalists based on categories, such as vocal strength, control, quality delivery and charisma.

All selected finalists will receive a limited-edition White Sox National Anthem contest T-shirt, with the grand-prize winner presented a customized White Sox jersey and hat before stepping up to the mic for their Aug. 11 performance.

Last year’s inaugural National Anthem contest drew hundreds of submissions from across Illinois.

Among the group was Feliciano, a 26-year-old music and choir teacher from Bloomington, Illinois, whose vocals and performance earned her the contest’s grand prize. While amid recording her debut EP “Stories I’m Ready to Tell,” Feliciano captivated judges with a near-perfect final-round audition score before delivering the National Anthem for her fellow hometown fans at a Sox game last September.

She has since been invited back for an encore performance during the 2025 White Sox season.

This year’s contest entry window closes on Monday, June 16, at 11:59 p.m. CT.

For contest details, eligibility restrictions and official rules, visit whitesox.com/anthem.