North Dakota Athletics, in partnership with Oak View Group, is gearing up for the 2026 Fighting Hawks football season, starting with a home opener against LIU on August 27 at 7 p.m. Last season, all six home games saw record attendance, each exceeding 10,000 fans for the first time. The Alerus Center continues to implement a cashless system for improved efficiency, while fans can still buy 50/50 raffle tickets with cash. Special events planned for the opener include pre-game activities and post-game fireworks.

By the Numbers
  • All six home games in 2025 drew over 10,000 fans for the first time.
  • Season tickets are on sale starting at $170 per seat.
State of Play
  • The Alerus Center is a cashless facility, with cash exchanges available for pre-paid cards at Guest Services.
  • Tailgating starts at 8 a.m. for all home games after the opener, with special amenities for season tailgaters.
What's Next

Fans can expect enhanced gameday experiences with new merchandise kiosks, additional tailgating activities, and field suites returning for an exclusive experience. Upcoming promotions will include opportunities for veterans to attend games in dedicated suites. The new season is set to build on last year's attendance success.

Bottom Line

The 2026 season presents a unique opportunity for fans to engage more deeply with the Fighting Hawks, promising excitement both on and off the field. Key enhancements to gameday experiences signal a commitment to fan satisfaction and community engagement, crucial for continuing this attendance trend.