UNC Magazine
June 25, 2026
Last Look – Nottingham in Lights
After 30 years of daytime football, Nottingham Field will host its first night games this fall — illuminating a new era of Bears football in Greeley
For three decades, the Bears football team has competed at Nottingham Field under the Colorado sunshine — closing out competitions before the sun slips behind the nearby Rocky Mountains and the stadium settles into darkness.
But that nighttime hibernation is coming to an end.
This fall, Nottingham Field will shine under the lights for the first time in its 30-year history — ushering in a new era for the Bears and setting the stage for the electric atmosphere that defines nighttime college football.
As the only Big Sky Conference program without stadium lights, the enhancement will bring UNC’s facility in line with its conference peers. However, Director of Athletics, Darren Dunn, said this project is much more than a facility upgrade — it’s a significant opportunity for UNC and Northern Colorado Athletics that will impact perception, recruiting and competitiveness.
“Saturday Night Lights represent tradition, energy and community,” said Dunn. “Across college athletics, evening games consistently drive higher attendance and create a true event atmosphere. Bringing lights to Nottingham Field allows us to create that same experience on our campus — drawing students, alumni, families and the community together.”
In addition to the upgraded fan experience, the lights also have the potential to unlock new revenue opportunities in the form of increased ticket sales, concessions and parking revenues; sponsorship visibility; and opportunities to host outside events. Dunn said evening games also increase opportunities for television and streaming exposure.
“That expanded visibility will strengthen the Northern Colorado Athletics brand beyond Greeley and Weld County and enhance the reputation of UNC as a whole,” said Dunn.
Installation of the new lights will be completed in time for the Bears’ 2026 season opener on Friday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m., against Weber State. The $1.6 million project is being funded entirely through private philanthropy and sponsorship revenue — a testament to the generous and strong support for UNC Athletics.
