The allure of Thursday night football is back in Blacksburg this week, as Virginia Tech plays host to Boston College in an ACC matchup. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, with gates opening two hours out at 5:30 p.m.
The atmosphere should be electric, with the game being announced a sellout. Fans still seeking ticket options for the matchup are encouraged to visit SeatGeek, the official fan-to-fan ticket marketplace of Virginia Tech Athletics.
Get ready for gameday with five things to know for the Hokies' clash with the Eagles.
1. Wear Orange
This Thursday's contest will serve as the Hokies' annual Orange Effect game, and fans are encouraged to wear orange to look the part. The official USS Orange Effect T-shirt is available to purchase at bookstore locations, including the Hokie Shop’s trailer in Lot 4.
2. Special Occasions
It’s been a staple in Blacksburg for a long time for the Hokies to play a game on a Thursday night, and this Thursday marks another chapter in that storied history. The first contest on a Thursday in Lane Stadium on ESPN took place on Sept. 22, 1994 – a 34-6 win for the Hokies over West Virginia. Thursday marks the 30th anniversary of that tradition – one that has the Hokies sitting 24-12 all time.
Additionally, Tech will host ESPN’s afternoon edition of SportsCenter with co-host Matt Barrie live from Virginia Tech’s campus on Thursday. Thursday's program will originate from the Quillen Spirit Plaza outside Dietrick Hall in the area facing Washington Street, with the public invited to gather for the show. The show will air from 2-3 p.m. Guests are allowed to view the show from the Spirit Plaza and are asked not to gather prior to 1:30 p.m. Anyone planning to attend should review campus parking policies in place by clicking here Parking Guide and Map.
3. Parking Lots Info
Due to the game falling on a weekday, parking lots will open later than normal at 3 p.m., including the public RV lot. Fans are encouraged to arrive around 3 p.m. Beamer Way will close to traffic at 4 p.m. Click here to learn more about postgame traffic patterns.
Football parking (click to view info/map) and tailgating on gameday is a valued commodity, and it becomes extremely significant as we welcome the entire Virginia Tech community to campus. Therefore, to ensure that each game day guest has a positive and safe tailgating experience, fans should adhere to these parking rules.
Please ensure your vehicle is parked within the designated spaces and be mindful of not lingering in the roadways, as this can lead to congestion and safety risks for both vehicles and pedestrians. Your cooperation is key to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all fans.
4. Skydivers & Enter Sandman
Right before the game starts, Team Fastrax skydivers will jump into Lane Stadium. Then college football's most iconic entrance will take place at night, complemented with stadium fireworks, showcasing the excitement of Hokie Nation.
5. Enjoy the Pregame Festivities
There is a lot happening in Blacksburg on Thursday, and we want you to be equipped to partake in it all.
Hokie Village
Located on the turf soccer/lacrosse practice field off Beamer Way, the complimentary fan fest area opens at 4 p.m. and closes at 6:45 p.m. Fans can enjoy food trucks and drinks available for purchase. Free activities include inflatables, a balloon artist, face painting, live music from the Jared Stout Band and autograph signings from the men’s and women’s soccer teams.
Hokie Walk
Hokie Nation will be able to welcome the Hokies as they arrive at Lane Stadium. The buses will arrive on Beamer Way outside of Lane Stadium at approximately 5 p.m.
March to Victory
The Marching Virginians lead the March to Victory from the Marching Virginians Center to Lane Stadium at approximately 6 p.m. Joined by members of the HighTechs, Corps of Cadets and Skipper, the march leaves the Marching Virginians Center at the top of Chicken Hill, winds through Lot 5 on to Sterrett Drive between Lots 2 and 3 and finishes along the sidewalk outside of South End Zone into Lane.
Five Things to Know: Boston College
Orange effect game and more
