Stock up on peanuts and Cracker Jack, because minor baseball season is back in the South Okanagan. 

The South Okanagan Minor Baseball Association got things going Sunday afternoon with hundreds of kids, and their families, in attendance at McNicoll Park in Penticton for a couple of games and a free barbecue provided by IGA.

"We've got about 300 kids registered in baseball this year," said Iain MacIntyre, president of SOMBA. "It's just kind of a celebration to kick off the season for the kids."

Hot dogs were sizzling and the sun was shining as Mayor Andrew Jakubeit threw the first official pitch of the season.

MacIntyre said the value of the sport goes beyond physical activity, saying it also teaches the kids important lessons and social skills.

"They learn a lot about each other, how to give back to the community, they get to meet different kids in the community that they wouldn't get a chance to at school," he said. "Plus they get to be outside playing in the sunshine in Penticton. You can't beat that."

Friends Ethan and Carson, who are 11 and 12 years old, agree. 

"I wouldn't have met Carson if I didn't start baseball," said Ethan, patting Carson on the back. 

The league offers t-ball for younger members which runs through June, and regular baseball for older kids which runs through August.