Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech Athletics announced Tuesday the introduction of Hokie Hour for the remainder of the 2026 football season, along with additional enhancements to stadium entry operations aimed at reducing congestion and improving the overall fan experience at Lane Stadium.
Hokie Hour will offer fans an exciting opportunity to kick off gameday with a variety of pregame festivities, including Hokie Village, the official pep rally and Hokie Walk on Beamer Way as well as earlier access to the stadium and early bird specials.
As part of its ongoing commitment to elevate the Virginia Tech Gameday Experience, gates will now open 2.5 hours prior to kickoff for the remainder of the football season. During Hokie Hour, which runs during the first hour of gates opening, fans can enjoy 50% off concessions (non-alcoholic) at most locations. The early bird special also includes $4 select domestic beers, $5 select import beers and $5 canned transfusions. Fans are encouraged to drink responsibly and must be 21 years or older.
"Our fans are the heartbeat of Lane Stadium, and we want every part of their Virginia Tech Gameday Experience to reflect that," said Virginia Tech vice president and director of athletics Brian White. "We're listening to their feedback and continuing to make meaningful adjustments throughout the season to improve the experience from the moment they arrive. Introducing Hokie Hour and enhancing stadium entry are the latest steps in our ongoing commitment to delivering the exceptional gameday experience Hokie Nation deserves."
In addition to introducing Hokie Hour, Virginia Tech Athletics continues to make operational improvements to enhance stadium entry and address fan feedback regarding wait times at gates. Building on adjustments made throughout the season, additional staffing and ticket-scanning equipment will be deployed at entry points to help improve efficiency, alleviate congestion and create a smoother entry process for fans.
Under White’s leadership and in collaboration with university and local community partners, Virginia Tech has introduced a variety of enhancements to elevate the overall gameday experience for fans, including free admission for children under three (“free under three”), connectivity upgrades, and the pregame pep rally on Beamer Way to build excitement leading into Hokie Walk. Additional improvements include upgraded concessions, an amplified gameday atmosphere, and a greater focus on the fan experience through dedicated athletics department staffing and leadership. Furthermore, Beamer Way is now pedestrian-only on gamedays, creating a safer and more accessible gathering space for fans.
Virginia Tech Athletics remains committed to listening to fan feedback and identifying opportunities to further enhance the Virginia Tech Gameday Experience throughout the remainder of the season and beyond.