GLENDALE — Long before kickoff at this year’s Fiesta Bowl, fans will be able to enjoy a free event designed to turn game day into a full-scale celebration of college football.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Fans gather outside of State Farm Stadium before the Penn State Nittany Lions play the Boise State Broncos at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl in Glendale on Dec. 31, 2024. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The annual Fan Fest, held hours before the highly anticipated semifinal matchup between Ole Miss and Miami, will feature live entertainment and a walkable experience for visitors coming to the Valley as well as local Arizona residents. The event has become a key part of the bowl’s tradition, offering access and excitement beyond State Farm Stadium.
Fan Fest reflects the Fiesta Bowl’s broader impact by drawing in the community and reinforcing the game’s deep roots in Arizona. While much of the nation’s attention will be focused on who advances to the College Football Playoff final, the festival puts the spotlight on the city of Glendale and those attending the game in person.
Fans gather outside of State Farm Stadium before the Penn State Nittany Lions play the Boise State Broncos at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl in Glendale on Dec. 31, 2024. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For traveling fans, Fan Fest serves as an introduction to the city and a preview of the bowl’s atmosphere. Many visitors experiencing Arizona for the first time will get a taste of live entertainment and college football pageantry at no cost.
The event also attracts college football fans whose teams may not be playing, providing a shared space for them to connect with others who share the same passion for the sport. Local fans can celebrate the Fiesta Bowl’s strong ties to Arizona, honoring not only rising talent on the field but also the history the game carries within the state.
A group of teenagers run around in a circle to spin the Spirit balloon during the 2024 Fiesta Bowl Parade on Dec. 28, 2024, in Phoenix, Ariz. © Megan Mendoza/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
It’s not just about who wins the bowl, but the impact it has on everyone involved. From players and staff to fans and the surrounding community, the Fiesta Bowl offers something that lasts well beyond the final whistle.
For more information on Fan Fest, fans can check the post below.
IT’S TIME TO FIESTA 🎉
Kick off your game day on Thursday with the ultimate pregame celebration. Join thousands of college football fans at the @vrbo #FiestaBowl Fan Fest Pregame Party — a free, all-ages event, just north of State Farm Stadium.
🎸 IMPORTANT UPDATE: Arizona… pic.twitter.com/sejuoHjePv
— Fiesta Sports Foundation (@Fiesta_Bowl) January 7, 2026
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Reports say All-Star Kyle Tucker to the Diamondbacks is purely speculation
