Texas Football Hosts Free 2026 Fan Day with Open Practice and Autographs

Fans can attend the team's only open practice of the year and meet players and coaches at the family-friendly event.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:52pm

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A fractured, geometric painting in shades of burnt orange and white, depicting overlapping planes and perspectives of a Texas Longhorns football practice or game, conveying the raw energy and excitement of the event.The vibrant energy and team spirit of Texas Football Fan Day is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the action on the field.Austin Today

Texas Athletics announced that Football Fan Day is set for Saturday, April 18, 2026, featuring the team's only open practice of the year as well as a street fest, team shop sale, photo ops with Bevo XV and Smokey the Cannon, and an autograph session with Head Coach Steve Sarkisian and Texas Cheer and Pom. The first 5,000 fans will receive a free rally towel, and all activities are free and open to the public.

Why it matters

Texas football is one of the most popular college programs in the country, and Fan Day provides an opportunity for the loyal fanbase to connect with the team before the upcoming season. The event also generates excitement and buzz around the program, helping to drive ticket sales and boost community engagement.

The details

The Fan Day festivities will kick off at 9:30 a.m. with a street fest on DeLoss Dodds Way that includes a team shop sale and photo ops with Bevo XV and Smokey the Cannon. The open practice will start at 11 a.m. at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, followed by an autograph session and photo opportunities with Head Coach Steve Sarkisian, Texas Cheer, and Texas Pom on Campbell-Williams Field.

  • Football Fan Day is set for Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • The street fest and team shop sale open at 9:30 a.m.
  • The open practice begins at 11 a.m.
  • The autograph session and photo ops start after the practice.

The players

Steve Sarkisian

The head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team.

Bevo XV

The live mascot of the Texas Longhorns.

Smokey the Cannon

The cannon that fires after Texas touchdowns.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome our fans back to campus for this special event and give them an early look at the 2026 team.”

— Steve Sarkisian, Head Coach

What’s next

Fans are encouraged to arrive early, as the first 5,000 attendees will receive a free rally towel. The clear bag policy will be enforced for safety, and complimentary parking will be available in the Manor Garage and LBJ Surface Lots.

The takeaway

Texas Football Fan Day provides a unique opportunity for the team's passionate fanbase to connect with the players and coaches before the start of the season. The free, family-friendly event generates excitement and community engagement around one of the most prominent college football programs in the country.