The Arizona Cardinals announced on April 1 that the team will host its 2026 Draft Party, presented by State Farm, on April 23 from 4 to 9 p.m. The event will take place on the Great Lawn outside State Farm Stadium and both admission and parking are free for fans.
The draft party offers an opportunity for fans to gather and watch live NFL Network coverage of the draft, which begins at 5 p.m., on two large video boards. Attendees can meet current players, Cardinals legends, mascot Big Red, and cheerleaders. There will also be giveaways and special fan moments throughout the evening.
Entertainment options include a Kids Interactive Zone with immersive experiences and inflatables, photo booths across the Great Lawn, meet-and-greet opportunities with players and other team representatives, as well as appearances by special guests during the event. While entry is free, digital tickets are required; these can be reserved through www.azcardinals.com/draftparty or accessed via the Cardinals mobile app. Each individual may secure up to four tickets while supplies last.
Cardinals merchandise—including exclusive draft gear—will be available for purchase alongside food trucks offering food and beverages. All sales will be cashless at this event. Free parking opens at State Farm Stadium’s West carparks starting at 3:30 p.m., accessible off 95th Avenue between Cardinals Way and Maryland Avenue.
Security procedures include bag checks in line with NFL Clear Bag policy; attendees must return non-approved bags to their vehicles as mobile lockers will not be available. Prohibited items include tents, video cameras, tailgating games, outside food or drinks (with some exceptions), but lawn chairs are permitted.
The Arizona Cardinals have a long history in professional football as members of the NFC West division according to their official website. The team serves the greater Phoenix area in Arizona according to their official website and hosts home games in Glendale according to their official website. Notably, they captured an NFC championship in 2008 according to their official website and stand as the oldest continuously operating professional football franchise in the United States according to their official website.
With support from partners such as Desert Financial Credit Union, Lexus, Dignity Health, Swire Coca-Cola, BetMGM and Anheuser-Busch making this community event possible each year—fans can expect a day filled with activities celebrating both local spirit and football tradition.