A Milestone for the Program
The University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks will open the 2026 season on August 27 at the Alerus Center, facing LIU in a night matchup that marks the first of six home games expected to each attract more than 10,000 spectators.
Alerus Center will operate as a cashless venue, accepting only debit, credit, prepaid cards and gift cards for parking and concessions, while cash can still be exchanged at Guest Services for ticket purchases and remains valid at the Box Office.
Tailgating will begin at 8 a.m. for every home game, with access closing two hours before kickoff, and a new gameday kiosk on the East Concourse will sell football merchandise and NIL apparel from the Sioux Shop.
Field suites return for 2026, offering premium experiences, and a dedicated Veterans In Premium program grants suite access to veterans and active‑duty military members, continuing a tradition that has sold out the Peterson Porch for six consecutive years.
After each touchdown, the stadium will light up with fireworks and pyrotechnic effects, adding a celebratory atmosphere to the on‑field action.
Season tickets start at $170 per seat, while single‑game tickets are available through the Box Office or online, with the 50/50 raffle remaining cash‑only and sold by the North Dakota Spirit Squads during the first quarter.
The 2026 schedule also marks the 19th night game in Alerus Center’s history since its opening in 2001, underscoring the growing prominence of Fighting Hawks football within the regional sports landscape.