The Saskatchewan Roughriders have announced the themes for their 2023 home schedule.
Starting with their preseason tilt on May 27 and stretching until their regular season home finale on October 21, the Riders will have a unique theme for each home game this upcoming season.
“We can’t wait to bring Rider Nation back to Mosaic Stadium for the 2023 season,” said chief brand officer Anthony Partipilo. “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!”
It all begins with “Community Culture Night” on May 27, which will celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of Saskatchewan. There will be performances at the returning “Party in the Park” as well as special pre-game and halftime shows.
For the home opener on June 16, the Riders are presenting “Dad’s Night Out” which will feature dad-themed entertainment as well as a halftime performance by Canadian rock legend Kim Mitchell all in celebration of Father’s Day. The first 5,000 dads that enter Mosaic Stadium will receive a free team hat.
“Throwback Thursday” follows on July 6 which will see the team don their retro jerseys and give the atmosphere at the stadium a retro feel. Vinyl Society will perform at the “Party in the Park” prior to the game, the first 5,000 fans to enter the stadium will receive a pair of retro Roughriders sunglasses and a yet-to-be-named old-school rock and roll band will perform at halftime.
July 15 will be the “kisiskâciwan game” that will celebrate Indigenous cultures in the province. This will include on-field performances from Indigenous performers both during pre-game and halftime with Detour performing during the “Party in the Park.”
On August 6, fans can enjoy “Country Roots Night” where the first 5,000 fans will receive a country-style bandana and the Rider Flo Dance Crew will perform a country-theme routine at halftime.
“Family Day” will take place on August 20, which will see activities such as free painting, inflatables and appearances by popular characters during the “Party in the Park.” A free plush Gainer doll will be given to the first 5,000 children who enter the stadium and the junior cheer team will perform at halftime.
For the Labour Day Classic on September 3, the Canadian Armed Forces will perform a flyover during the national anthem and there will be a watermelon-eating contest.
Next up is the “Lights Out” game on September 15. There will be light-up giveaways and a special “Lights Out” halftime show.
“Legends Night” will happen at the penultimate Riders home game on October 7. This is the night the Plaza of Honour will enshrine its latest inductee and the 2013 Grey Cup championship squad will be celebrated, with the first 5,000 fans in attendance receiving a replica 2013 Grey Cup ring.
Lastly, for the regular season finale on October 21, the Riders will have a “13th Fan Appreciation” night. There will be a number of giveaways as well as some surprises for fans in attendance.
