Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Aggie Memorial Stadium, with tailgating, the Kid Zone, Aggie Walk and postgame fireworks planned

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - NM State football hosts Mercyhurst tonight at Aggie Memorial Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. and a full slate of pregame activities beginning hours earlier.

Tailgate lots open at 11 a.m., while the stadium ticket booth, student tailgate at Sisbarro Park and Kid Zone open at 4 p.m.

Aggie Walk begins at 4:15 p.m., and stadium gates open at 5:30 p.m.

The Pride of New Mexico pregame show is scheduled for 6:43 p.m., followed by the national anthem and NM State team introduction before kickoff.

NM State Athletics also plans a fireworks show approximately five minutes after the game ends.

Parking and tailgating

Public game-day parking is available in Lot 29 at the north Pan American Center parking lot, Lot 30 and Lot 105 north of the Tennis Center.

The northern section of Lot 30 is designated as an alcohol-free tailgating area.

Additional parking lots require appropriate credentials or parking passes.

Tailgating is permitted in designated lots. NM State’s 2026 tailgating regulations are available through the athletics department’s website.

Cashless concessions and stadium entry

All concessions inside Aggie Memorial Stadium are cashless.

Food vendors include La Jefa, El Cavernicola, Pal Norte, Vic and Dave’s and Yalla Falafel. New Grab & Go stations are also available on the concourse while supplies last.

Fans should also be prepared for metal detectors at stadium entrances.

NM State’s clear bag policy allows clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags and small clutch bags no larger than approximately 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches.

Backpacks, large purses, coolers, briefcases, computer bags and other oversized bags are prohibited.

If lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium, spectators may be asked to seek shelter in their vehicles. Re-entry will be allowed for those who leave for weather-related safety.