Blue Out and fireworks are the most important commercials for the opening game of a football home game

ORONO, Maine – In addition to the exciting tailgate and game atmosphere on football game night in Orono, Maine Athletics is pleased to announce a full slate of promotional activities and events for the first home game Friday night at 7 p.m. against Colgate.

• Join the Black Bears for a Friday Night Lights edition of a Blue Out at Alfond Stadium! All fans are encouraged to wear blue for the home opener as the Black Bears host Colgate on move-in day at UMaine
• Fans will receive the official Maine Football schedule poster and schedule magnets while supplies last.
• All UMaine students attending the game on Friday will receive Thundersticks courtesy of the law firm of Joe Bornstein.
• The 2023-24 America East Champion women’s basketball team will be introduced during the game and will be available for an autograph signing in the Hannaford Kids Zone before the game from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

In addition to the exciting promotional events previously announced, Maine Athletics is pleased to announce a post-game fireworks display presented by Phantom Fireworks.

Fans are encouraged to stay after the conclusion of Maine’s home opener as the Black Bears light up the sky to celebrate the return of football and the start of the 2024-25 school year. Fireworks will begin approximately 15 minutes after the end of the game.

The improved Beer Garden has been relocated to the north end zone. This new location provides fans with a more spacious area to enjoy the experience within the confines of the Garden while improving ADA accessibility. The Beer Garden features a covered tent, a variety of improved seating options and great views of the action at Morse Field. The Beer Garden will be open 90 minutes prior to kickoff to all ticket holders ages 21 and older, space permitting.

All tailgate parking lots open at 3:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon.


Season and single-game tickets for the upcoming season are now on sale and can be purchased online at GoBlackBears.com/tickets, by phone at 207-581-BEAR, or in person at the Alfond Arena box office during regular hours. Students with a valid MaineCard may receive a free ticket to any game. Students can pick up their tickets on game day at the Alfond Stadium student entrance, located on the southeast side of the stadium near the Mahaney Diamond.

For all information about game day in Orono please click here.

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