Navy Football Season Kicks Off with Fan Fest

It’s almost August, and that can mean only one thing: Navy football season is right around the corner.

The Midshipmen officially kick off the 2026 season at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, against in-state opponent Towson. Fans won’t have to wait until September to get in on the action, however. The popular Navy Football Fan Fest and Media Day returns Saturday, Aug. 8.

Held from 2-4 p.m. at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the free, family-friendly event will feature games, inflatables and giveaways. The first 250 children in attendance will also receive a free T-shirt.

Beginning at 2 p.m., Navy players will line the concourse on the Blue, or press box, side of the stadium to sign autographs. At 3 p.m., the activities will move to the field, where fans can play games, take photos and interact with members of the team.

Admission and parking are free, making Fan Fest an affordable afternoon activity for the whole family. Guests should enter the parking lot through Gate 5 off Taylor Avenue and enter the stadium on the Blue side.

The event takes place just four days after the players report for fall camp. Fans will have another opportunity to celebrate the upcoming season during the annual Blue-N*-Gold Kickoff BBQ at noon Saturday, Aug. 15, at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

The members-only barbecue gives fans an opportunity to spend more time with Navy players, coaches and fellow supporters. Attendees can enjoy barbecue and refreshments while taking photos, collecting autographs and showing their Navy pride.

The number of tickets available depends on membership level. Admiral’s Row and Vice Admiral’s Row members each receive six tickets, three-star members receive four tickets, and two-star and one-star members each receive two tickets.

Excitement is already building around the team. Senior quarterback Braxton Woodson was recently named to the Shriners Children’s East-West Bowl 1000, which recognizes college players eligible for the 2027 all-star game and NFL Draft.

Navy was also picked by Athlon Sports to finish first in the American Conference. Senior center Cam Nichols and junior linebacker MarcAnthony Parker were named to Athlon’s preseason all-conference team.

The Midshipmen’s season opener against Towson will be the first of five games at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Navy will then play three consecutive road games before returning to Annapolis for a 3:30 p.m. matchup against Tulsa on Saturday, Oct. 10.

Other highlights include the Homecoming game against North Texas on Oct. 24 and a neutral-site matchup against Notre Dame at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Oct. 31. The regular season concludes with the 127th Army-Navy Game at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Fans can visit the Navy Athletics website for the latest schedules, team news and ticket information. Season-ticket packages for all five home games begin at $305 per person, while single-game tickets are also available.

Whether you’re a longtime Navy supporter or introducing your family to the Midshipmen for the first time, Fan Fest offers the perfect way to start the season. Put on your blue and gold, bring your Navy spirit and get ready to cheer the Mids all the way through December.