2026 McNeese Football Fan Fest Set for Saturday

Lake Charles, Louisiana - Football season is just over two weeks away from kicking off, and this weekend, McNeese will host a Fan Fest to get fans ready for the 2026 season. The Fan Fest will feature a scrimmage, vendors, activities for the kids, and more.

Quick Glance at the 2026 McNeese Cowboys

Excitement has begun to build ahead of the 2026 season and the second year under Matt Viator. The Cowboys are looking to build on their good run to end the 2025 season, in which they won 4 of their final 6 games.

During the first scrimmage, the Cowboys showed the ability to really run the football behind a new-look offensive line and deep running back room that features former LCCP star Tre'Vonte Citizen, Louisiana Tech transfer Omiri Wiggins, and Louisiana-Lafayette transfer Hutch Swilley. The Cowboys ran for over 300 yards during the scrimmage last Saturday.

There will be no warm-up for the Cowboys this year, as they will get thrown into the fire immediately with the reigning Southland Conference Champion Stephen F Austin coming to Lake Charles to kick off the season on August 29th.

This Week's Scrimmage

The biggest focus for McNeese this week has been situational football. After spending the first part of camp focused on installing the offense and defense, the Cowboys have shifted their attention to the situations that can decide games.

Viator said that will be a major part of Saturday night's scrimmage.

"This week is really all about situations," Viator said. "We've tried to work different situations each day, and then turn around, teach them at night, come out here and try to get in them."

McNeese Football Fan Fest set for this Saturday, August 15th

Football fans will be able to get an up-close look at the Cowboys on Saturday, August 15th at 6:00. The event is free for the public. It will begin with the Cowboys' preseason practice at 6 p.m. and will also include vendors, games, and the latest McNeese merchandise. Fans will also have the chance to get closer to the team with on-field access and player autographs.

Along with football, Fan Fest will include plenty of activities for the whole family. Guests can enjoy food trucks, jump houses, face painting, local vendors, and more. A special vendor area will also be set up, featuring local businesses, artists, makers, and farmers showcasing their products. The Farmers Market-style setup gives local creators a chance to connect with the McNeese community.