UNLV Football returns for the 2026 home opener on Saturday, Aug. 29, when the Rebels welcome Memphis to Allegiant Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff.

The opening night of the 2026 home schedule will feature Community Heroes Day, the debut of the new Rebel Pregame Party, the Rebel Village Fan Zone, live music, giveaways and a full slate of activities designed to make the home opener an all-day experience.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy everything happening around Allegiant Stadium before the Rebels take the field. Check out the information below to make the most of game day at Allegiant Stadium.

Rebel Village Fan Zone

The Rebel Village Fan Zone will be the center of the pregame experience in Lot C, featuring entertainment, activities and experiences for fans of all ages beginning at 4 p.m.

Star Nursery Stage

The Star Nursery Stage will feature a special performance from a Killers tribute band, bringing the energy of one of Las Vegas' most iconic bands to the festivities.

New Rebel Pregame Party

The home opener will mark the debut of the Rebel Pregame Party, a new way for fans to get ready for UNLV Football before heading into Allegiant Stadium.

Located in Lot C, the Rebel Pregame Party will feature an all-you-can-eat food package with beer and wine for $40 ($45 at the doors) per guest 21 and older and $20 ($25 at the doors) for those under 21. Fans are encouraged to take advantage of the introductory price, as prices will increase during game week and again on game day.

The party will also feature college football action on two 70-inch televisions underneath the tent, giving fans an opportunity to catch other games from around the country while getting ready for the Rebels.

Meet the UNLV Cheer Team

The UNLV cheer team will make an appearance at the Rebel Village Fan Zone.

Visit Coors Light Landing

All fans are encouraged to visit Coors Light Landing before the game to pick up collectable giveaway items and snag an autograph from members of the Runnin' Rebels.

IBEW Glow Baton Giveaway

A total of 7,500 glow batons, sponsored by IBEW, will be available to fans at the game. Glow batons are available to all fans, while supplies last.

Game Day Pin Giveaway

The popular UNLV Game Day Pin initiative returns for the 2026 season following its successful debut last year.

For the second consecutive season, fans will have the opportunity to collect a unique commemorative pin at each home game. Each of UNLV's six home games this season will feature its own exclusive Game Day Pin, giving fans a chance to collect the complete six-pin set.

For the home opener, 2,000 Game Day Pins will be available to the general public and students at the Rebel Pregame Party in Lot C, while supplies last.

To help fans display their collection, UNLV will also distribute commemorative collector cards at the home opener. The cards are designed to fit all six Game Day Pins into a 5-by-7-inch frame, giving fans a way to showcase the complete collection throughout the season.

Fans are encouraged to collect all six pins and complete their 2026 Game Day Pin collection.

Collectible Game Poster

Fans will have the opportunity to receive a collectible game poster celebrating the 2026 home opener. Game posters will be placed around the concourse, and at Coors Light Landing

Meet the Runnin' Rebels

Fans will also have a chance to meet the Runnin' Rebels during an autograph session from 5:45-6:45 p.m. at Coors Light Landing. This is the first chance to meet the team before their first exhibition game on Oct. 7.

Community Heroes Day

Saturday's home opener will serve as Community Heroes Day, giving UNLV and its fans an opportunity to recognize the individuals who make a difference throughout Southern Nevada every day.

The Rebels will celebrate the first responders, educators, healthcare professionals and other community heroes who help make Las Vegas a stronger place to live, work and raise a family.

The celebration will be prominently featured during the pregame and game presentation. Local first responders will hold a large American flag on the field during the national anthem, creating a special tribute to those who serve and protect the Las Vegas community.

Local educators will also be recognized as teachers take part in an opening run-out, helping officially welcome the Rebels onto the field before kickoff.

Fans are encouraged to join UNLV in showing their appreciation for the community heroes who dedicate themselves to serving others throughout Southern Nevada.

Win with the Rebels & Raising Cane's

Fans 21 and older will have the chance to win big with the Raising Cane's 50-50 raffle during Saturday's game. The raffle will open on Aug. 29 at 2:00 p.m. and the winning number will be announced during the second half of the game.

Wynn Field Club Open Before and After the Game

Fans looking for a premium experience can visit the Wynn Field Club before and after the game. The club will be open to fans 21 and older, providing another destination to enjoy the home opener before kickoff and continue the celebration after the final whistle.

Game Day Timeline

3:00 p.m. — Parking Lots Open
Parking lots open at 3 p.m., giving fans plenty of time to arrive and enjoy the pregame festivities.

4:00 p.m. — Rebel Village Fan Zone Opens
The Rebel Village Fan Zone opens in Lot C at 4 p.m. Admission is free and no game ticket is required.

4:00–6:30 p.m. — Rebel Pregame Party in Lot C
The pregame entertainment continues with live music on the Star Nursery Stage.

5:00–6:30 p.m. — Live Band Performance
The pregame entertainment continues with live music on the Star Nursery Stage.

5:30 p.m. — Allegiant Stadium Doors Open
Stadium doors open at 5:30 p.m. Fans attending the game are encouraged to arrive early to allow ample time for parking, security screening and getting to their seats.

5:45–6:45 p.m. — Runnin' Rebel Autograph Signing at Coors Light Landing
Meet the 2026-27 Runnin' Rebels and get a signed poster from the team.

7:10 p.m. — Kickoff
The Rebels take the field against Memphis in the first home game of the 2026 season.

UNLV Football vs. Memphis Quick Facts

Saturday, Aug. 29
Allegiant Stadium

Parking Lots Open: 3 p.m.
Rebel Village Fan Zone Opens: 4 p.m.
Stadium Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
Kickoff: 7:10 p.m.