Fighting Illini Football Promotional Schedule Announced for 2025

Buy Tickets | Promotions | Grange Grove

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Fighting Illini Athletics has announced the promotional schedule for the 2025 Fighting Illini football season. Illinois kicks off the 2025 football season at home against Western Illinois on Friday, Aug. 29, at 6:30 p.m. CT.

FAMILLY FUN ZONE EVERY GAME ALL SEASON LONG  – Enjoy the FamILLy Fun Zone in Grange Grove, with bounce houses, face painting, balloon artists, football equipment try-ons, giveaways, posters, tailgating, and more!

Friday, Aug. 29, vs. Western Illinois

6:30 p.m. CT | Get Tickets

U. of I. Student Night

Res-Hall Challenge – The residence hall with the most residents in attendance will be rewarded with access to Memorial Stadium for two hours on a separate date.

Greek Recruitment – Fraternity & Sorority Affairs, along with the student leaders of all four councils – Black Greek Council, Interfraternity Council, and United Greek Council – will host a FREE tailgate in Grange Grove pregame with food and giveaways. Once gates open, Greek life members will have tabling in the north student concourse to provide recruitment information and opportunities.

Saturday, Sept. 13, vs. Western Michigan

6 p.m. CT | Get Tickets

Celebrate Food and Ag – Join the College of ACES in Grange Grove for Celebrate Food and Ag Day on Sept. 13, an Illinois game day tradition that highlights the impact of agriculture, food, and natural resources on our daily lives. ACES alumni and friends are invited to gather for a festive pregame tailgate. During the game, Dean Germán Bollero will take the field to recognize the importance of this work and the people who power it.

FamILLy Day – In partnership with Illinois’ New Student & Family Experiences, an exclusive FamILLy Day tailgate will be held in Grange Grove prior to the Fighting Illini facing Western Michigan. FamILLy Day tailgate passes are SOLD OUT, but FamILLy Day tickets are still available for purchase HERE.

Extra Yard for Teachers – As part of the College Football Playoff Foundation’s national platform to promote and reward educators, Illinois will pay tribute to local and national impactful teachers. Teachers will also be offered free tickets to the game. Contact Will Lyznicki at wlyz@illinois.edu or 217-333-1397 to learn more.   

Band Day – High school bands from across…