NFL Kickoff Experience In Tampa Leads Up To Season's 1st Game

TAMPA, FL — Tampa will be in the national spotlight Thursday as the National Football League kicks off the 2021-22 season.

As the hometown of the winning Super Bowl LV team, Tampa will play host to a day filled with events leading up to the season's first game between the Buccaneers and the Dallas Cowboys at Raymond James Stadium at 8:20 p.m.

Prior to the big game, the NFL will host the 2021 Kickoff Experience presented by EA Sports Madden NFL 22 at Julian B. Lane Park, 1001 North Blvd. in Tampa from noon to 11 p.m.

The experience will include appearances by Buccaneers Legends, photo ops with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and all 55 Super Bowl rings, and a pregame concert featuring Ed Sheeran at 7 p.m.

With more than 150 million records sold worldwide, English singer-songwriter Sheeran is one of the world's best-selling music artists. He will release his new album Oct. 29.

The party will continue with the exclusive NFL Kickoff Watch Party, hosted by Kimmi Chex and Desi Banks, where fans can cheer on the Bucs in the historic matchup to kick off the season.

The Kickoff Experience is open to the public, rain or shine. Gates will open at noon. Access to the public viewing areas is limited and will be on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is free, but those attending must download the NFL OnePass app.

In addition to access to the NFL Experience, the pass will provide event information, free-to-play games, a virtual event concierge and a chance to win prizes.

Here's The Schedule Of Events:

Noon - gates open

1 p.m. - Meet NFL Legends including Derrick Brooks and Simeon Rice on the NFL Legends Autograph Stage.

Take in performances by the Buccaneers' Cheerleaders & Drumline, musical groups NoFilter and Vella, and the Florida A&M University Marching 100

4:40 p.m. - Actor and comedian Desi Banks joins NFLN's own Kimmi Chex as co-host.

7 p.m. Ed Sheeran kickoff concert begins.

8 p.m. Cheer on the Buccaneers with fellow fans at the exclusive NFL Kickoff Watch Party presented by Bud Light.

Other Activities At The NFL Kickoff Experience Include:

• 40-Yard Dash, testing your speed against a real NFL player.
• Field Goal Kick to test your ability to kick a field goal through NFL uprights.
• Touch Pass where you master one of the most difficult throws for an NFL quarterback by throwing the ball on an arc over a defensive player and into a net.
• An autograph stage with free autographs from NFL Legends
• Look Like A Pro by stepping inside a uniformed body-cast mold bearing the insignia of your favorite NFL team and have a friend snap your photo.
• Take your photo with the Vince Lombardi Trophy, football's most prestigious award.
• See the collection of all 55 Super Bowl rings up close in detail.
• Pepsi NFL Helmet Photo Opportunity in which you can take your photo with your NFL team's oversized helmet.
• NFL Shop featuring the largest assortment of exclusive merchandise, presented by Visa.

There are several protocols in place for the 2021 Kickoff Experience, including enhanced cleaning of surfaces and hand sanitizer stations placed throughout Julian B. Lane Park.

Face coverings are not required for entry, but are recommended for those who are not vaccinated (including children under the age of 12) and those with a weakened immune system.

For more information about health and safety, click here

Click here for a list of prohibited items.

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