UNLV Athletics announced on April 20 a series of themed football games for the upcoming 2026 season, including the annual Homecoming game against new Mountain West member North Dakota State. The first-ever matchup between UNLV and North Dakota State is scheduled for October 10 at Allegiant Stadium.
The announcement outlines six home games, each with its own theme to engage fans and honor various community groups. The themes include Community Heroes Day on August 29 against Memphis, Hispanic Heritage Day on October 3 versus Cal, and Nevada Day combined with Halloween festivities during the October 31 game against Northern Illinois. Other highlights include Military Appreciation and Native American Heritage Day on November 7 when UNLV faces Wyoming, as well as the traditional Battle for the Fremont Cannon against UNR on November 28.
Homecoming will also serve as Breast Cancer Awareness Day, presented by Comprehensive Cancer Centers. The event will feature alumni recognitions throughout the game and the crowning of the Homecoming Court during halftime. Special activities are planned to raise awareness and support for breast cancer research and survivors.
Additional celebrations include cultural performances, tributes to local teachers, military recognition events such as a patriotic halftime show by the UNLV marching band, and ceremonies honoring both Hispanic and Native American communities in Las Vegas. Fans attending Nevada Day are encouraged to dress up in costumes for Halloween weekend; however, full face masks are not permitted per stadium policy.
Tickets for all six home games are now available online or through direct contact with the UNLV Ticket Office. Mini-plans and single-game tickets will be released in coming months.
