Colgate vs Central Michigan may be the matchup on the board, but the bigger immediate story is the game day information now shaping the experience around Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Central Michigan University Athletics has announced a new Fan Fest on the North Side, along with a cashless venue policy and Saturday’s special event recognitions.
For fans making plans, the message is straightforward: arrive prepared, know the venue rules and factor in the extra activity around the stadium. Saturday will also bring Members First Credit Union as the game day sponsor, while Central Michigan will celebrate Family & Friends Weekend, Extra Yard for Teachers and Football Alumni Day.
New Fan Fest debut on the North Side
The most notable addition is the debut of Fan Fest on the stadium’s North Side. That gives the game day build-up a more defined focal point and adds another layer to the atmosphere around Central Michigan football.
For supporters, it also means the experience around the game is becoming part of the event itself, not just the football on the field. The North Side setup is a clear marker that Saturday is being staged as more than a standard home date.
What fans need to know at Kelly/Shorts Stadium
Alongside the new Fan Fest, Central Michigan University Athletics has confirmed that Kelly/Shorts Stadium will operate with a cashless venue policy. That affects the practical side of the day, especially for parking, concessions and ticketing.
The point of the notice is simple: fans should plan ahead before arriving. With venue rules in place and Saturday’s special recognitions layered on top, this is the kind of game day where preparation matters as much as timing.
Saturday’s special recognitions
Saturday will also see Central Michigan celebrate Family & Friends Weekend, Extra Yard for Teachers and Football Alumni Day. Those elements give the occasion a wider community feel and add context to the atmosphere around the game.
Members First Credit Union will serve as the game day sponsor, tying the notice together as Central Michigan prepares for a busy Saturday at home. The football remains the main attraction, but the surrounding details make clear that the day has been built as a full stadium experience.
