SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State University will be hosting a free community-wide "Party in the CUSA" celebration on the Springfield campus on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
 
The kickoff to MSU's entree into Conference USA and the university's first season as an FBS institution will feature a night of food, games and fun, starting at 6 p.m.
 
All Missouri State fans, students, faculty, staff, season ticket holders, student-athletes and Springfield community supporters are encouraged to attend the event, which starts in the BearFest Village area just north of Robert W. Plaster Stadium and adjacent to McDonald Arena and the Trottier Plaza.
 
Free parking is available in adjacent lots and parking garages during the event.
 
The night of family-friendly events will include:

• Local food trucks featuring tacos, chicken wings, churros, traditional fair snacks, lemonade and more
• Inflatables and face painting for kids
• Music
• Meet Missouri State student-athletes and coaches
• EA Sports NCAA Football 2026 eSports Station
• Yard games
• Adult beverages for sale
• Missouri State Bookstore will have CUSA-branded BearWear and merchandise for sale
• Gameday pep rally on the Bear head, featuring the Missouri State Pride Band, Boomer, Cheerleaders and Sugar Bears
• Ticket sales and season ticket information
• "MoState Update" live podcast, featuring host Corey Riggs and university officials
• Movie screening on the field at Plaster Stadium, starting at 7:45 p.m., and co-sponsored by the Missouri State Student Activities Council.