Northwestern Reveals 2026 Home Football Venues and Ryan Field Debut
Northwestern Football has unveiled its home game venues for the 2026 season, a significant update following the January announcement by the Big Ten Conference regarding the game schedule. The Wildcats will play their first two non-conference games at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium, located along the scenic shore of Lake Michigan.
2026 Home Football Schedule Overview
The Wildcats’ home schedule kicks off with two notable matches:
- September 5: vs. South Dakota State at Northwestern Medicine Field
- September 19: vs. Colorado at Northwestern Medicine Field
The remaining five home games will take place at the new Ryan Field, marking its debut with a match against Penn State on:
- October 2: vs. Penn State (Inaugural game at Ryan Field)
Marking a Historic Moment
October 2 will also commemorate 100 years since the original stadium, which has undergone several name changes, hosted its first game. The new Ryan Field is part of Northwestern’s dedication to enhancing the football program and improving the student-athlete experience, according to Mark Jackson, the Combe Family Vice President for Athletics and Recreation.
Construction Progress
Ryan Field’s construction is on schedule to be completed by mid-September 2026, preparing it for use during the Big Ten season. Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of Ryan Sports Development, expressed gratitude to all involved in keeping the project on track despite unexpected weather complications.
Season Ticket Information
Recent season ticket holders from 2023 to 2025 will have priority access to seat selection at the new Ryan Field. Those interested in becoming new season ticket holders can register for updates and exclusive information on the stadium.
2026 Northwestern Football Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 5 | South Dakota State | Northwestern Medicine Field |
| September 19 | Colorado | Northwestern Medicine Field |
| September 26 | at Indiana | Bloomington, IN |
| October 2 | vs. Penn State | Ryan Field |
| October 10 | vs. Ball State | Ryan Field |
| October 17 | at Michigan State | East Lansing, MI |
| October 24 | vs. Rutgers | Ryan Field |
| October 31 | at Oregon | Eugene, OR |
| November 7 | vs. Iowa | Ryan Field |
| November 14 | at Ohio State | Columbus, OH |
| November 21 | at Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN |
| November 28 | vs. Illinois | Ryan Field |
Community Engagement Initiatives
Northwestern is also planning community events at Ryan Field. These include:
- Halloween/Fall Festival: Scheduled for October, this event aims to celebrate the fall season with local families.
- Winter Festival: This holiday market will feature winter activities and cater to all ages.
As the project progresses, more details about these events will be shared with the community. Northwestern remains committed to enhancing local engagement as it transitions to the new stadium.
