The regular season has arrived and the Cardinals return to State Farm Stadium on Sunday to open the home schedule against the NFC West rival Rams. But what awaits the fans who come watch coach Jonathan Gannon's players this season is an upgraded adventure of the senses, for football and otherwise.
A look at the top five things for which to look forward on game days:
An Enhanced Game Day Experience
A new look for the pre- and in-game "show" will be apparent, from fresh LED ribbon boards now encircling the entire bowl and renowned DJ Mal-Ski sparking energy and excitement as he engages the crowd all game long. A walk on the concourse looking for refreshments will reveal a facelift for the concession stands to create a new feel. New seating options like the Casitas and Field Boxes allow fans to be closer to the game than ever before. And for those looking to tap into the rising sport of flag football, the Cardinals Flag Football Experience – the first flag football campus located at an NFL stadium – is available on game days for local teams.
Outdoor Pregame Fun
The Great Lawn is a stadium original, eight acres of the heart and soul of game day fandom. Tailgating starts there. But there is the BetMGM Sportsbook, a state-of-the-art gambling option on the north side of The Great Lawn that doubles as a world-class sports bar. Heritage at Sportsman's Park, also located just off The Great Lawn, features three stories of either public or private availability with upscale food and beverage options. The Flight Deck's East Lounge, a shaded structure on the southeast plaza, gives fans an chance to watch all the early NFL games on a oversized video wall.
Once You're Inside The Stadium
The Cardinals are introducing the "Happiest Hour," the first hour after the main gates open where fans can get 20 percent off beer at select locations while escaping the heat and watching warmups. There is the opportunity to get a "I'm celebrating" or "happy birthday" button at any guest service location. Or head over to the team shop to get a new, exclusive pin for each game.
Foodies Rejoice
To delve into the delectable delights at the stadium this season will fulfill anyone's culinary dreams. The Cardinals have added seven new local brands to the four already in place, including Spinato's Pizzeria, Barrio Queen, Kaizen, and Scoopwell's Dough Bar. A total of 50 new food items are available – including, yes, the famous Cotton Candy Burrito. (And don't forget about the gourmet food trucks on the plaza pregame.)
A Team on The Rise
There is, of course, football too. Coach Jonathan Gannon has many of his pieces in place after a season, starting with a healthy Kyler Murray at quarterback. The Cardinals are a team on the rise, built with multiple young draft picks – including wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and tackle Paris Johnson Jr. – and veterans like Budda Baker, James Conner and Trey McBride. It's a group that needs the backing of the Red Sea, and there is no greater fun than a fanbase growing with a young team.
