Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau invites community to Parade & Pep Rally on September 1 in preparation for Arkansas Razorbacks game

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 14, 2023) — The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) invites the community to be a part of the Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally on Friday, September 1, 2023, in Little Rock’s River Market District. The LRCVB, City of Little Rock, and the Little Rock Regional Chamber have partnered with the University of Arkansas to bring the University’s Razorback Marching Band, Spirit Squads, and the official live mascot of the Arkansas Razorbacks, TUSK VI, to lead the festivities. This partnership aims to unite visitors and locals alike in a grand showcase of excitement and unity leading up to the much-anticipated Razorbacks game at War Memorial Stadium, promising an unforgettable Labor Day weekend experience.

“We are thrilled the University’s 2023 football season will kick off right here in our capital city,” said LRCVB President and CEO Gina Gemberling. “Arkansas Razorbacks games played in Little Rock have long been a time-honored tradition for local and statewide residents,” she added. “Friday’s Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally will certainly set the tone for Saturday’s big opener,” she concluded.

Spectators are encouraged to gather along the parade route and follow the fun to the pep rally at First Security Amphitheater. The parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Little Rock Regional Chamber and make its way down President Clinton Avenue to Riverfront Park where a pep rally finale will take place at the First Security Amphitheater. Both events will serve as a precursor to the Hogs’ game against Western Carolina on Saturday, September 2 at War Memorial Stadium.

“We are appreciative to the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City, and the Little Rock Regional Chamber for helping roll out the Razorback red carpet for our upcoming trip to Central Arkansas,” University of Arkansas Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek said. “Throughout Arkansas, fans come together as One Razorback to support our athletic teams. We look forward to kicking off another exciting season in the capital city and encourage all Razorback fans to pack War Memorial Stadium to cheer on Coach Sam Pittman and the Razorback Football team.”

The Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally serves as the ideal prelude to a weekend filled with joyous festivities, where visitors and locals can plan ahead to enjoy the vibrant spirit of the city. As the City joins forces to Paint the Town Red, the LRCVB invites businesses to embrace the spirit of celebration and join the festivities. Encouraging all to wear their Razorback red, businesses are invited to engage with the community by hosting special events or promotions, welcoming the teams on their marquees, and showcasing the renowned hospitality for which Little Rock is known.

“The Little Rock Regional Chamber is proud to partner with both the City and the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau as we welcome the University of Arkansas back to Little Rock,” said Little Rock Regional Chamber President and CEO Jay Chesshir. “Razorback games have always been an exciting time for families and fans to gather to celebrate our Hogs, and nothing says ‘community’ quite like a game played at War Memorial Stadium,” he added. “Not only does this event bring Razorback fans together, but it also showcases our beautiful city along with the restaurants, entertainment venues, and friendly atmosphere that residents and visitors alike have come to love.”

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. expressed his excitement about the events, stating, “Game days at War Memorial are a true highlight for the state’s capital city and they’re an experience unlike any other,” Scott said. “The City of Little Rock is proud to host the Razorbacks as we also celebrate the 75th year of War Memorial Stadium. The stadium and War Memorial Park have been the site of so many great memories for Hog fans over the years, and we’re excited about the season opener,” the mayor added.

For more information about the anticipated game at War Memorial Stadium, visit littlerock.com/arkansas-razorbacks-at-war-memorial-stadium. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at arkansasrazorbacks.com or by calling (800) 982-HOGS.

ABOUT THE LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Little Rock, charged with marketing and selling the city as a meetings, sports and leisure travel destination. The LRCVB also manages the Statehouse Convention Center, Robinson Center, River Market Ottenheimer Hall and outdoor pavilions, First Security Amphitheater, and multiple parking facilities. The LRCVB is primarily funded by a lodging and prepared foods tax. For more information, visit www.littlerock.com.

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