SPRINGFIELD -- BearFest Village tailgating reservations for Missouri State's 2016 football season opener are due by Noon this Friday (August 26). Individual fans, groups and student organizations wishing to reserve space in one of the best pregame party zones in the Missouri Valley Football Conference may call (417) 836-5001 or may also submit the reservation form via email to Danielle Niepert at Niepert143@live.missouristate.edu.

The Bears' 2016 season opener is Thursday, Sept. 1 at Robert W. Plaster Stadium on the MSU campus. Second-year head coach Dave Steckel leads his team into action for a 6 p.m. start against the Southwestern College Moundbuilders. BearFest Village tailgating begins at 3 p.m.

With great music, performances by the Pride Band, Sugar Bears and MSU Cheerleaders, BearFest Village will be the place to be on Bears game days throughout the season. The football Bears will enter the stadium with the pregame "Bear Walk" through BearFest Village about 75 minutes before kickoff and then again right before pregame introductions. A pregame pep rally featuring the Pride Band, Sugar Bears, MSU Cheerleaders, Boomer and Growl on the steps of McDonald Arena, approximately 30 minutes before kickoff. BearFest Village also includes inflatables, games, music and fun.

Approved alcoholic beverages at BearFest Village include beer, wine, wine coolers and other malt beverages. Patrons must be 21 years or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Hard liquor and glass containers are prohibited, and the University Alcohol Policy will be enforced.

For more information on BearFest Village activities, regulations, setup and reservations, please visit the BearFest Village page on MissouriStateBears.com.