Flexible Kickoff Times For Halloween
Most Saturday matches in Major League Soccer kick off at 7:30 p.m. local time. When the league put together the 2026 regular season schedule, officials decided to approach the clubs with a question.
The league asked teams if they would prefer to play earlier in the day on Saturday or move their fixtures to Sunday. This flexibility allows both supporters and players to keep their evening free for Halloween activities and celebrations.
Saturday Slate And Special Fan Gift
Only one match will stay in the standard 7:30 p.m. evening slot on Saturday. The Colorado Rapids will face the Chicago Fire in Denver during prime trick or treating hours.
Supporters going to Dick's Sporting Goods Park will get a special gift. As part of Fan Appreciation Night, the Colorado Rapids are giving each fan a five pound bag of potatoes to take home.
Eight other Saturday matches will start much earlier in the day. These games will kick off at either 1:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. local time. A further six matches will be played on Sunday instead.
Players Enjoying Family Time And Costumes
New York City FC is among seven clubs hosting a 2:00 p.m. kickoff on Saturday. The early finish gives 29 year old Texas native Keaton Parks time to prepare his outfit. Parks, who carries the nickname Big Bird, wore a Big Bird costume for last year's celebrations and now has extra hours to get his feathers ready.
Nashville SC cleared their Saturday completely by moving their game against Red Bull New York to Sunday afternoon. That move gives United States goalkeeper Brian Schwake a free Saturday evening. He plans to spend the early evening trick or treating with his young son.
A Unique Weekend For The League
The shift in schedule creates an unusual weekend across the league. Fans can watch their favorite teams early in the day and still take part in holiday traditions later that night.
By adjusting the match times, the league ensures that players and supporters do not have to choose between soccer and their Halloween plans.
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