The Vikings and Buccaneers are more than ready to start the 2023 season, and the noon (CT) Sunday kickoff at U.S. Bank Stadium is approaching fast.
There's always pageantry that accompanies Week 1, but the 2023 installment features additional ceremony.
Minnesota for the first time will wear The Vikings Classic, a uniform look created to pay homage to earlier voyages. The jerseys feature a deeper purple than the modern version, with slab serif font on the numbers that are trimmed in gold. Traditional font for names and sleeve stripes round out The Classic jerseys.
This game, which is being presented by Mystic Lake, also will be special to so many because the Vikings are paying tribute to Bud Grant, the Hall of Fame Head Coach who passed away in March at age 95. Players jerseys will feature “Bud” patches for the game. After Week 1, players will wear helmet decals the rest of the season.
The Vikings also are honoring the teams that went to Super Bowls VIII, IX and XI in the span of four seasons under Grant's leadership.
View photos of U.S. Bank Stadium transformed into Vikings Classic ahead of the 2023 season opener.
How to connect with the game
On the airwaves
CBS (WCCO in the Twin Cities) will air the game on television.
KFAN (100.3-FM), KTLK 1130-AM and the five-state Vikings Radio Network will broadcast the game.
Audio from the Vikings Radio Network will be available on smart devices through the KFAN channel on the iHeartRadio app.
Click here for all the ways to watch/listen/stream the game.
Minnesota Vikings mobile app
Keep the Vikings nearby wherever you go with the Minnesota Vikings mobile app. It's your source for news, exclusive features, photos and videos.
Live Chat
Vikings.com Staff Writer/Editor Lindsey Young will host a live chat from U.S. Bank Stadium beginning at 10:30 a.m. (CT). Join the conversation with Editorial Assistant Ellis Williams and Senior Editor Craig Peters before the game and stay connected with in-game updates.
NFL+ and NFL+ Premium
Start your free trial of NFL+ today to watch Vikings preseason games live or on-demand.
Logistics
Getting to U.S. Bank Stadium
Vikings.com/stadium includes information regarding health and safety protocols, parking, tailgating, rideshare and public transit options. It also includes an A to Z guide, maps, and information about the NFL's bag policy and the fan code of conduct.
Cashless payments only
Among the helpful information on that page is a reminder that U.S. Bank Stadium now only accepts cashless payments.
Skyway Access
A special skyway route (map below) will be in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Sunday's game. Skywayaccess.com has a special page for U.S. Bank Stadium events that will be updated this season.
Road Closures
Please be aware of two significant weekend construction closures on metro area freeways that will impact travel for Sunday's season opener. The closures will begin 10 p.m. (CT) Friday, Sept. 8, and extend until 5 a.m. (CT) Monday, Sept. 11.
- Southbound between Highway 62 and Interstate 494
- Detour – Hwy 62 to Hwy 100 to I-494
- Northbound between Interstate 494 and 78th Street
- Detour – I-494 to Hwy 77 to Hwy 62
- Eastbound between Interstate 394 and Interstate 694.
- Detour – I-694 to Hwy 169 to I-394
Please plan accordingly and give yourself extra time on Sunday if these closures impact your direct game day route.
Health & Safety Protocols
ASM Global VenueShield
ASM Global – U.S. Bank Stadium's management team – continues to execute its "VenueShield" program, ensuring the facility is clean and certified at the highest standards of health and safety. VenueShield focuses on six key components of venue management best practices for health and safety and is specialized for sports and entertainment facilities. VenueShield's environmental hygiene program specifies protocols for disinfection of surfaces, enhanced cleaning methods and applications, and infection control plans.
The Vikings, ASM and the MSFA also implement extensive cleaning, disinfecting and sanitization measures on game days and adhere to guidelines set forth by the CDC and the Minnesota Department of Health. All high-touch surfaces throughout the stadium — including seats, railings, food and drink surfaces, elevators and escalators — are cleaned, disinfected and sanitized before, during and after games. Hand sanitizer locations are located throughout U.S. Bank Stadium, including at entrances, concourses, premium areas and restrooms.
Atmos Air
U.S. Bank Stadium offers a clean and safe environment for guests through the virus-fighting protection of a bi-polar ionization system, which is installed in every air handling unit in the venue. This state-of-the-art technology actively contributes to better health by restoring indoor air to its natural state through an ionization process, mitigating or limiting airborne viruses and keeping the air inside the stadium cleaner and healthier. The system installed at U.S. Bank Stadium has been proven in labs to effectively improve indoor air quality. Stadium officials also monitor air flow and take reasonable steps to maximize air exchange.
Downtown Minneapolis/U.S. Bank Stadium Security/Safety
The Vikings and our stadium partners collaborate with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Homeland Security, the Minneapolis Police Department and the Hennepin County Sheriff's Department, to ensure the appropriate number of law enforcement officials are on site and that U.S. Bank Stadium and the surrounding areas are safe for Vikings fans, players and staff. Additionally, together with BEST Security, the team contracts with hundreds of security personnel on game days to ensure a strong security presence throughout the stadium. For 2023 night games, fans will see easily identifiable safety ambassadors (Protective Agents) present throughout several blocks surrounding the stadium and lighting towers will be strategically placed near parking lots and parking ramps. For additional information regarding public safety downtown, please visit the City of Minneapolis, Meet Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Downtown Council web sites.
Ecolab Science Certified
U.S. Bank Stadium has earned the Ecolab Science CertifiedTM seal. The program combines hospital disinfectants and food-contact sanitizers with public health and food safety protocols, training and periodic auditing, giving fans confidence that practices are repeated and checked. Fans will see the Ecolab Science Certified seal displayed in participating areas throughout the stadium. For more information on the Ecolab Science Certified program, visit www.sciencecertified.com.
Activities
Delta Vikings Village (outside U.S. Bank Stadium)
The Delta Vikings Village will open at 9 a.m. and close at kickoff.
It will include the following activities:
The Pepsi Sound the North Stage will feature The Hype from 9 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.
Food and beverages available from Aramark at The Longhouse (opens at 9 a.m. and closes at noon) and additional locations throughout the plaza
The Vikings Table food truck will begin serving at 9 a.m. and close at noon
Vikings Locker Room team store will open at 9 a.m. and close at noon
Bag check (locations on north and south sides of Chicago Avenue and on the east side of the stadium on 11th); open from 9 a.m. until 30 minutes after the game; cost is $10 per bag
Autographs by Vikings Legends Rufus Bess and Rickey Young from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The Commons (outside U.S. Bank Stadium)
Buddy Games, a new show concept with longtime Vikings fan and actor Josh Duhamel, will feature interactive competitions and a photo op to celebrate the show's Sept. 14 premier on CBS.
Numerous family-friendly activities are planned for The Commons, including the following:
Music by DJ A-Quil
Appearances by Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders, Viktor and the SKOL Line
Minnesota Vikings Chuck for Charity
Inflatable games, tailgate games and face painting
Food Trucks: Indigo Bowls and Samurai Teppanyaki
The Plaza (outside U.S. Bank Stadium)
Pendleton Whisky, which has created a special "Decade of Dominance" bottle to honor the teams of the '70s, will offer a whisky tasting and calf-roping demonstration beginning at 9 a.m. Vikings Legends Scott Studwell, Antoine Winfield, Jeff Wright and Esera Tuaolo are scheduled to stop by between 10 and 11 a.m.
Game Elements
Pregame DJ
DJ Skee, the St. Paul native who has produced for top artists ranging from Snoop Dogg to Michael Jackson and composed music for video games like HALO and Ghost Recon, will feature a custom playlist.
Pregame Performances
Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders and the SKOL Line
National Anthem
NATIONAL ANTHEM: Manny Laureano, Minnesota Orchestra Principle Trumpet, will perform the National Anthem. The performance will be accompanied by the display of a full-field American flag.
Color Guard
A Joint Services Color Guard representing the branches of the military
Gjallarhorn
Bud Grant's family members will be on the Gjallarhorn platform
TCO Legends Connections
Cornerback Nate Wright, who totaled 34 interceptions for the Vikings from 1971-80 and started in Super Bowls VIII, IX and XI, will participate in one interview during a break in the action. Vikings Ring of Honor receiver Ahmad Rashad, who totaled 400 catches, 5,489 yards and 34 touchdowns for Minnesota from 1976-82, will participate in the other.
Halftime
A Decade of Dominance Ceremony celebrating the teams that won three NFC Championships in four seasons will be moderated by Mark Rosen and feature a speech by Rashad. More than 30 Vikings Legends from those teams are expected to attend.
Promotions
Hometown Heroes Presented by U.S. Bank
During each home game, U.S. Bank and the Minnesota Vikings will recognize individuals who have helped make our community a better place. The program honors individuals who have gone to extraordinary measures to make positive differences in the community.
This week's Hometown Heroes are Evan Newton and Brian Shriver with Capable Partners, a volunteer-run organization that helps physically challenged individuals enjoy the outdoors through free events.
Miller Lite Military Moment
Minnesota Veterans Outdoors, whose mission is to salute and honor our country's disabled veterans, will be recognized. The organization hosts turkey and deer hunts, as well as other experiences. Grant supported this organization as part of his love for the outdoors.
Vikings Fancam Presented by 3M
The Vikings Fancam captures your excitement throughout the game. Tag yourself and enter to win prizes at vikings.fancam.com.
Hy-Vee Fuel Saver + Perks®
THEY score, YOU save! Shop your local Hy-Vee store following game day to receive great fuel savings. Simply spend the same amount that the Vikings scored and earn a one-cent credit on your Hy-Vee Fuel Saver + Perks® card. If the Vikings score 14 points, spend $14 or more the next day and earn 14 cents of credit on your Hy-Vee Fuel Saver + Perks® card. Promotion valid at all Minnesota Hy-Vee locations; some limitations apply. See stores for details.
Opening Drive Sweepstakes Presented by Kwik Trip
Purchase any Pothole pizza or 20-oz Pepsi or Mountain Dew product with Kwik Rewards to enter the Vikings Opening Drive Sweepstakes. Win a $10 Kwik Trip gift card for every yard earned on the Vikings opening drive, plus a $500 bonus for a field goal or $1,000 for a touchdown. One weekly winner will be selected each game, and all are finalists for a chance to win 2024 season tickets and free fuel for a year! Visit kwiktrip.com/sweepstakes for details.
Sacks for Apps Presented by Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings brings you "Sacks for Apps" during all Vikings home and away games this season! When the Vikings record 2.0 or more sacks in a game, all fans score a free appetizer with a minimum purchase of $20. Offer is valid for three days after each eligible game. Visit vikings.com/bww for your digital coupon and offer details.
Fan of the Year Presented by Captain Morgan
Does your Vikings fandom go beyond the game? The Vikings and the NFL are celebrating extraordinary fans who are a positive influence and inspire others through their love of football. Nominate yourself or others for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas! Enter at nfl.com/fanoftheyear.
Free Big Mac on McD app
1967 gave us a Legendary Coach and the Big Mac. Celebrate with a 67-cent Big Mac. Only in the app.
#VikingsHAIR Presented by Spalon Montage
Spalon Montage is giving one lucky fan a $100 gift card. Tweet a photo of you at the game to @vikingspromo using #VikingsHAIR for a chance to win.
Charity Auction Benefiting the Minnesota Vikings Foundation
Bid on exclusive Vikings memorabilia and experiences at vikings.com/auction. Visit the auction kiosk by Section 101 to view this game's auction items. All proceeds support the Minnesota Vikings Foundation.
Split The Pot Raffle Benefiting the Minnesota Vikings Foundation
You could be the game-day lucky winner to share the Jackpot! Purchase your raffle tickets from Split The Pot kiosks or sellers roaming through U.S. Bank Stadium. The winning ticket will be selected by a random drawing and posted online after the game. Winner has 30 days to claim the cash prize. Split The Pot supports the Minnesota Vikings Foundation's youth health and education initiatives. Visit vikings.com/splitthepot for details.
SKOL Scribbles
Enter Skol Scribbles for a chance to win one of 17 weekly prize packs from South Dakota Tourism. Visit Vikings Instagram and Snapchat stories to learn more.
Field Goals for Charity Presented by Innovative
In partnership with the Vikings with the Vikings and Post-It Brand, Innovative is proud to present the Field Goals for Charity Program. During the regular season, each time a Vikings kicker successfully kicks a field goal, Innovative and Post-It Brand will donate $250 (up to $5,000) to Be The Match.
That Deserves a Crown Presented by Crown Royal
For the 2023 season, the Minnesota Vikings and Crown Royal "That Deserves a Crown" program will recognize outstanding local veterans for making a positive difference in the community. Visit vikings.com/thatdeservesacrown to nominate a deserving veteran, who will be honored at the Vikings game on Nov. 12, 2023, with a special game-day experience.
Win Viktor's Ride Presented by Pepsi
Purchase your Pepsi souvenir cup at any U.S. Bank Stadium concession stand for your chance to win Viktor's ride.
Football Fanatic Presented by Jameson
Showcase your football fandom by submitting your photo as the Jameson Football Fanatic of the Week. Fans will have a chance to win a Vikings and Jameson weekly prize pack, and one fanatic will be named the Jameson Football Fanatic of the 2023 season, winning a co-branded mini fridge. To enter, go to vikings.com/fanatic and submit your fan photo today.
Vikings in Vegas Sweepstakes Presented by Gray Duck Vodka
Vikings fans, enter the "Vikings in Vegas Sweepstakes" presented by Gray Duck Vodka for your chance to win a trip for two to see the Vikings-Raiders game on Dec. 10.
Prize includes the following: 2 game tickets, 2 round-trip flights, 2-night hotel stay, Vikings merchandise, Gray Duck Vodka prizes, $500 Visa gift card
Must be 21 or older; Contest ends Nov. 5, 2023. To enter, visit vikings.com/Vikingsinvegas.
