Brigham Young University announced on May 6 that it will hold two Fan Fest events in California and Utah, along with a special Sunday devotional in Southern California. The university said these gatherings are designed to give fans outside the Provo area an opportunity to meet BYU student-athletes.
The Fan Fests are part of a tradition started in 2013, aimed at connecting Cougar Nation with BYU Athletics through community-based activities. Organizers say the events offer a chance for families and fans to interact directly with athletes, coaches, cheerleaders, and alumni.
The first event is scheduled for Saturday, May 16 at Huntington Beach Central Park West from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time. Admission is free. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet quarterback Bear Bachmeier, running back LJ Martin—who was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year—and nearly two dozen members of the BYU football team. The event will also feature games, giveaways, inflatables requiring waivers for some activities, face painting, food concessions from BYU Store vendors, and information booths staffed by the Cougar Club and BYU Alumni Association.
For those unable to attend in person, a live broadcast of “BYU Sports Nation” will air from Huntington Beach during the festival on BYUtv at 11 a.m. PT/12 p.m. MT.
A special Sunday devotional featuring head coach Kalani Sitake and several football players will take place on May 17 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse in Anaheim beginning at 2 p.m.
The following week brings another Fan Fest event on Wednesday, May 20 from 6-8 p.m. Mountain Time at Western Sports Park in Farmington, Utah. Fans can register online for both festivals; all registrants are entered into a drawing for a team-signed helmet.
Organizers say these events continue their commitment to making athletics accessible beyond campus while providing interactive experiences for fans young and old.
