Riders to host 10 themed games during 2023 season

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are offering fans 10 themed games during the 2023 CFL season.

“We can’t wait to bring Rider Nation back to Mosaic Stadium for the 2023 season,” Anthony Partipilo, the team’s chief brand officer, said in a statement.

“From the moment they step on the footprint, fans can expect fun-for-the-whole-family pre- and post-game activities, exhilarating halftime shows, and exclusive giveaways. Each game promises its own special experience you won’t want to miss!”

On May 27 the team will host a “Community Culture Night,” celebrating the diverse culture of Saskatchewan. The event is to include multicultural performances at the Coors Light Party in the Park and on-field entertainment before the game and at halftime, and fans will be allowed on the field after the game to celebrate the return of CFL football.

The home opener on June 16 has been dubbed “Dad’s Night Out,” and includes a performance by Canadian rocker Kim Mitchell. There are also free Riders caps being offered to the first 5,000 dads to get to the game.

The “Throwback Thursday” game is set for July 6, and fans are encouraged to wear retro Roughrider gear while free “Retro Rider Sunglasses” will be handed out to the first 5,000 fans through the gate. The team will also be sporting old-school jerseys during the home game.

On July 15 the Riders are to celebrate Indigenous culture in the community with the “kisiskâciwan Game,” which will include pre-game and halftime performances by Indigenous community members and a performance by the band Detour.

The “Country Roots” game is set for Aug. 6, giving fans a chance to break out the cowboy hats and boots, and the first 5,000 fans will get a country bandana at the gate. The game also features a dance performance and a country-themed halftime show.

The “Family Day” game is to go Aug. 20, and is to include face-painting, inflatables and more. Plush Gainer the Gopher dolls will also be given out to every child with a game ticket.

And of course no Rider season would be complete without the Labour Day Classic, which is set for Sept. 3. The Classic is to feature a flyover by the Canadian Forces during the anthem, and the return of the popular watermelon-eating contest.

The fan-favourite “Lights Out Game” is to return on Sept. 15, “as the visually mesmerizing spectacle on the prairies returns to light up Mosaic Stadium for a night.”

On Oct. 7, the Riders are to host “Legends Night” at Mosaic, celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the team’s 2013 Grey Cup victory. The first 5,000 fans get a replica championship ring at the stadium.

And last but not least, the 13th annual “Fan Appreciation” game is set for Oct. 21, as the team shows fans some love. The program is to include live music, dance performances, and a brand-new vehicle given away at halftime to one lucky fan.