PHOENIX – Last month, Verizon announced its first-ever Super Bowl FanFests, a viewing party across all 30 NFL markets. Verizon customers were able to purchase free tickets to FanFest to enjoy themselves as they watch the big game. The event brought overwhelming interest as all 100,000+ free tickets have been claimed and events are at capacity.
Verizon came up with this event to do something that’s never been done before – host more people at events than the Super Bowl itself. Following the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles winning their conferences, Verizon expanded FanFests in those respective cities. Additionally, Verizon is donating thousands of FanFest tickets to organizations supporting first responders in Los Angeles.
Being one of the 30 NFL markets, the Phoenix metro area will be a part of the nationwide watch party. Taking place at the 200,000-square-foot Great Lawn at State Farm Stadium, the event brings a new approach to Super Bowl Sunday. Covering more than eight acres, the Great Lawn was designed to be the heart and soul of the game day experience for Arizona Cardinals fans.
While the Cardinals’ season is over, the Great Lawn will still be used for a game day experience. There may not be as much of a tailgate feel as there is for Cardinals games, but Cardinals fans can eat food and connect similarly to a tailgate. In fact, FanFest provides more activities than what a Cardinals tailgate normally features.
For all 30 markets, one of those activities includes a meet and greet with former and current NFL players. The player at Arizona’s FanFest is retired All-Pro running back David Johnson. A well-known local athlete, Johnson played five of his eight seasons with the Cardinals. Across those five seasons, Johnson accumulated 5,347 scrimmage yards and 48 total touchdowns.
Of the 30 markets, six don’t have cheerleaders. That’s not the case for Arizona, however, as the Cardinals cheerleaders will be in attendance alongside Johnson. Fans who were able to get their tickets can take photos with both and get autographs from the former NFL player.
Food at Arizona’s FanFest will be provided by locally renowned chef Stacey Weber. Known for her catering business EAT, Weber oversees the culinary operations for the Arizona Cardinals. She’ll offer food that best captures the culinary taste of Arizona.
Other activities include interactive games for fans of all ages such as a zip line and field goal-kicking station. Adding to the event’s sounds will be live music from local artists. Festivities will take place from 2:30 to 8 p.m. in the heart of Glendale.