The Bridgeforth Football Stadium at James Madison University. Photo: BackyardProduction / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
JMU Athletics is bringing back its annual Meet the Dukes Day on Saturday, August 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Bridgeforth Stadium — and it’s completely free for fans!
This family-friendly event gives fans their first chance to meet the student-athletes from James Madison’s 2025-26 sports teams. Held right on Zane Showker Field, the evening will include games, on-field activities, photo ops, autograph stations, and inflatable attractions for added fun.
Fans can enter through Gate B, with parking recommended in Lots F, G, and P for the easiest access. Additional parking is also available in the Champions Deck.
Meet the Dukes Day is also the perfect time to sign up for the Puppy Pound — JMU’s official Kids Club, sponsored by Chick-fil-A Harrisonburg.
Open to fans in 8th grade and below, Puppy Pound members get perks like invites to exclusive parties with Chick-fil-A, free tickets to select football and basketball games, and more. Registration for the 2025-26 season opens soon. Note: membership packs will be mailed and won’t be available for pickup at the event.
Also on-site will be reps from the Athletics Ticket Office and the Duke Club, ready to answer questions about tickets and donations. The Duke Club helps fund scholarships and supports JMU Athletics through fundraising.
If weather becomes an issue, updates will be posted on JMUSports.com and JMU’s official social media channels on Saturday afternoon.