MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — South Florida is set to become the center of the college football world as championship weekend brings a packed slate of fan events, concerts and community activities ahead of Monday night’s title game.
Festivities begin Friday with the opening of Playoff Fan Central at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
The interactive fan experience opens its doors to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fans can have fun with interactive games, youth clinics, exhibits and much more through the weekend.
Friday afternoon, energy shifts to the University of Miami campus, where students and staff are scheduled to gather for a Lakeside Patio Pep Rally beginning at 1:30 p.m.
By Friday night, attention turns to team arrivals. The Miami Hurricanes are expected to arrive at their hotel, while Indiana is scheduled to touch down at Miami International Airport.
“Our focus and goal is to make sure Miami and South Florida shine,” said Eric Poms, a championship organizer.
On Saturday, Playoff Fan Central remains open throughout the day as both teams rotate through scheduled media sessions and potential fan interactions during media day.
As the evening starts, the weekend transitions into concert mode. AT&T Playoff Playlist Live opens Saturday night at Lummus Park on Ocean Drive.
Doors open at 6 p.m. for the free concert, which is expected to feature performances by Calvin Harris and John Summit.
Sunday is among the busiest days of the weekend.
Inside the Miami Beach Convention Center, the rivalry takes center stage with back-to-back pep rallies. Miami’s rally is scheduled for 2 p.m., followed by Indiana at 3 p.m.
Sunday night brings another round of live music at Lummus Park, with Peso Pluma and Latin Mafia slated to perform. Doors again open at 6 p.m. for the free event.
Championship Monday begins with a community focus. A Day of Service event is set for 9 a.m. at Booker T. Washington Senior High School in Miami, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Later in the morning, fans with tickets will head to Hard Rock Stadium, where an extended tailgate runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., building anticipation ahead of the championship game that will determine college football’s next national champion.
Additional events throughout the weekend include a race, a food-focused gathering and a summit for educators, adding to a full schedule expected to draw fans from across the country.
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