Bearcats Kickoff 2026
- Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
- Location: Nippert Stadium
- Time: 6:00pm
Bearcats Kickoff is the official start to your UC experience! Attendance is mandatory, but trust us, you'll want to be there! These are more than events - they are your first opportunities to build new friendships, make connections, learn Bearcat traditions, and start writing your UC story.
Download the Class Photo
We’ve captured a special aerial photo of the freshman class in Nippert Stadium. Download the high‑resolution file to print, share with family and friends, or keep as a personal memento of your first days on campus.
What to Expect
Get ready to experience the energy, traditions, and people that make our campus so special. Here's what to expect!
1. Gather the Crew!
You'll meet fellow new Bearcats at your Residence Hall or Commuter Student Meeting. Following the meeting, you and your crew will head to historic Nippert Stadium where all the fun awaits you. Save time by downloading your must have apps!
2. Capture the Moment!
Capture the moment with your class. One football field. One giant photo. One UC. Join your incoming class on the field for this Bearcat tradition. Trust us, you want to be in this picture! You’ll be able to find the photo on UC’s social media after Bearcats Kickoff. Check out the link at the top of the page here to download the photo so you can save it, print it, frame it, whatever you want!
3. Pump it Up!
Pump it up! Get loud, grab a snack, find a seat in the student section, and get ready for a taste of the UC gameday experience. Coach Calhoun, UC cheer and dance teams, and the Bearcat Bands will bring the spirit, while you bring the energy. And yes - there will be giveaways!
4. Celebrate Together!
Keep the celebration going with the Marching Band Preview Show or head over to Sigma Sigma Commons for free food, inflatables, games, UC picnic blankets (while supplies last) and fireworks!
We can't wait to see you at the Bearcats Kickoff. Your night. Your class. Your UC.
Accessible Entrance
For the accessible entrance, please look for the signage across from Subway and Steger Student Life to take the elevator to the field.
Parking
Campus Green and Woodside Garages will have free exit on August 20, 2026, until 11:00pm.
Approved Items Policy
Nippert Stadium has a clear bag policy. A full list of approved items and non-approved items can be found here.
Print a Yard Sign
Share the good news! Download a free "Home of a Future Bearcat" graphic - you can have it printed as a yard sign!
Questions?
