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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – When the Illinois football team heads to Chicago on Sept. 15 to face USF, Illini fans will be treated to a pregame Fan Fest filled with live music, inflatables, food trucks, Illini Walk and an appearance by the Marching Illini.

The Fighting Illini Fan Fest will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Stadium Green at Soldier Field on the corner of Campus Museum Dr. and E. Waldron Dr. One of Chicago's favorite party bands, The Ron Burgundy's will take the main stage at around 12:45 p.m. bringing hits from 60s, 70s and 80s.

Fans in attendance can join the cheerleaders and Marching Illini in welcoming the team to the stadium with Illini Walk at 12:15 p.m., followed by a performance by the Marching Illini.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m., food trucks from Robinson's Ribs and Corner Farmacy will be in the Fan Fest area, and beer will be sold at various locations as well.

The University of Illinois will offer a tailgate in the Illini tent with special appearances by Chancellor Robert Jones, President Timothy Killeen, and Director of Athletics, Josh Whitman. The complimentary refreshments include soft pretzel nuggets, mini beef hot dogs, and build your own nachos, with desserts and beverages.

Individual tailgating will not be permitted in the fan fest area, but picnic tables will be provided. The Fan Fest will also follow the same NFL Clear Bag Policy guidelines required inside Soldier Field.

Fan Fest Timeline

10:30 a.m. – Fan Fest opens (Stadium Green/Museum Campus Dr. & E. Waldron Dr.)
12:15 p.m. – Illini Walk (through Fan Fest)
12:30 p.m. – Marching Illini performance (in Fan Fest)
12:45 p.m. – The Ron Burgundys begin
2:00 p.m. – Fan Fest closes
2:30 p.m. – Kickoff Illinois vs. USF
  * food truck and beer sales begin at 10:30 a.m.