Steps taken to control crowd at San Francisco Giants' FanFest

The most stressful crowds were outside the ballpark -- thousands of fans who were forced to wait hours just to get through the gates.

Although Giants officials mulled the idea of expanding the club's annual open house at AT&T Park into a multiday event, this year's FanFest on Saturday will adhere to a familiar schedule, vice president Staci Slaughter said.

With some changes.

Unlike last year, season-ticket holders will not be allowed an exclusive access period. Gates will open to all at 10 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. The Giants found that granting early access to season-ticket holders created a problem for everyone: The early entrants clogged autograph lines before the players were at their stations, and wait times never recovered.

"We learn something new every year," Slaughter said. "We think everyone will have a better experience."

Last year's FanFest was an overwhelming experience for all involved. With the region still abuzz over the 2010 World Series championship, the event drew more than 40,000 fans; club officials closed the gates five minutes after they opened to the general public and advised fans who hadn't left home to stay put.

"Winning the World Series definitely doubled our attendance," said Slaughter, who expects crowds to be less overwhelming this time.

The club also will have more public space available to reduce crowding in concourses and other areas, Slaughter said. In past years, the field has been in disrepair after Motocross or other events at AT&T Park. It'll be grassy and open to fans this time.

As usual, admission to FanFest is free, although fans are encouraged to make a donation to the Giants Community Fund.

The Giants also announced that individual game tickets will go on sale beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday.