FC Cincinnati vs. San Jose Earthquakes: Your Complete Game Day Guide

Quick Summary: FC Cincinnati hosts the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET at TQL Stadium. It’s Salute to Service Night — a special tribute to military members, veterans, first responders, and their families. Gates open at 6:00 p.m., but the fun starts way earlier at Washington Park!

What’s Happening & When

Pro Tip: Get your tickets early at FCCincinnati.com/Tickets or call 513-977-KICK.

Salute to Service: What Makes This Night Special

This game is a heartfelt thank-you to:

• Active-duty service members
• Veterans
• First responders (police, fire, EMT)
• Their families

Expect: Patriotic ceremonies, in-game recognitions, and military organizations on site.

Learn more about the theme night →

IMPORTANT: Road Closures & Traffic Alerts

HEADS UP! Two major construction projects will affect your drive. Plan extra travel time!

1. Wade Street Closure (Near Stadium)

• Wade Street is CLOSED for new mixed-use district construction
• Workhorse Gate access: Use Liberty Street → Central Avenue instead

2. Brent Spence Bridge Construction (Major Highway Impact)

• Through May 2029 — yep, that’s years!
• Closed: I-75 North ramp to Winchell Ave, 9th St & 6th St access
• No signed detour for Winchell Avenue
• Detour for 9th St → I-75 North: Use 8th St & Freeman Ave
• 6th St → Winchell: Right-lane closure on ramp

Full traffic advisories here

Pre-Match Party at Washington Park (4:00–6:30 p.m.)

Free, family-friendly fun before the game!

Activities & Entertainment

• Write Thank You cards to local service members
• Live music from Saints & Strangers
• Food trucks: Davis Cookie Collection & Paityn’s Place Catering
• Airbrush & balloon art
• Games: Snooker ball, ladder ball, cornhole, coloring table
• FC Cincinnati inflatables
• Merchandise & marketing tables

Military & Service Organizations On Site

• United States Marine Corps
• United States Coast Guard
• United States Air Force
• DAV (Disabled American Veterans)
• Veteran Services
• Wounded Warriors
• Joseph House

Sponsor Booths

• Bavarian Meats
• Continental Tires
• Chick-fil-A
• American Home Tech
• Febreze

The Bailey March to the Stadium (6:30 p.m.)

At 6:30 p.m., join The Bailey (FC Cincinnati’s supporter group) for a high-energy march from Washington Park to TQL Stadium — complete with:

• Drums
• Flags
• Smoke
• Chants

Note: The Bailey section is general admission, safe standing only. Singing, drums, flags, and smoke are expected. No opposing team fans or colors allowed.

Inside & Outside TQL Stadium

Outside: Carl & Martha Lindner Plaza (Off Central Parkway)

• Continued entertainment leading up to kickoff

Inside: Be in Your Seats Early!

• Special pre-match presentations throughout the stadium and on the field
• Military honors and recognitions

Stadium Essentials: What You Need to Know

Clear Bag Policy (UPDATED)

TQL Stadium has an updated Clear Bag Policy.
Read the full policy here

NFC Ticketing (Tap & Go!)

• Add tickets to Apple Wallet (iPhone or Apple Watch)
• Tap your device at the gate reader — no need to open an app!
• Works at all stadium gates and entrances
  Mobile ticketing guide

Free In-Stadium Wi-Fi

• Provided by Atomic Data (club’s official IT partner)
• Connect for free once inside

FC Cincinnati Merchandise

Where to Shop

Special Military Discount

Service members get 20% OFF with valid Military ID!

What’s Available

• New Seven Hills Kit
• All favorite FC Cincinnati gear
• Various merchandise stands around stadium

Online & Pickup

• Shop online: FCCGo.com
• Buy online, pick up in-store

Food & Drinks at TQL Stadium

NEW for 2026 Season!

• bibigo Korean Fried Chicken Wings
• Buffalo Chicken Nachos
• Pulled Pork Poppers
• Buffalo Cauliflower Wrap
• Plus a dozen more new dishes!

Full concessions guide
Complete list of new 2026 food & merch

Helpful Links & Resources

Your Game Day Checklist (Numbered Steps)

1. Buy tickets early at FCCincinnati.com/Tickets
2. Check traffic — review Brent Spence Bridge advisories and plan alternate routes
3. Pack light — review the Clear Bag Policy
4. Add tickets to Apple Wallet for fast NFC entry
5. Arrive early for pre-match fun — Washington Park opens at 4:00 p.m.
6. Join the march at 6:30 p.m. from Washington Park
7. Be in your seats by 7:15 p.m. for pre-match ceremonies
8. Enjoy the game — kickoff at 7:30 p.m.!

Summary

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. What time should I actually leave my house?

With two major construction zones (Wade Street + Brent Spence Bridge), add 30–45 extra minutes to your normal drive time. If you want to enjoy the pre-match party, aim to be at Washington Park by 4:00 p.m. — so leave by 3:00 p.m. at latest.

2. Can I bring a backpack or purse?

Only clear bags are allowed (max 12" x 6" x 12") or small clutches (max 4.5" x 6.5"). No regular backpacks, large purses, or opaque bags. See full policy.

3. Do I need to print my tickets?

No! Add them to Apple Wallet on your iPhone or Apple Watch and tap at the gate. NFC ticketing works at all entrances. Android users can use the SeatGeek app.

4. Is the pre-match party at Washington Park free?

Yes! All activities — live music, games, food trucks (food costs extra), military displays, and the march — are free and open to the public. No ticket needed for the park.

5. What if I’m in The Bailey section?

It’s general admission, standing only. Arrive early for a good spot. Sing loud, wave flags, bring energy! But remember: no opposing team gear or fans allowed in this section.

Final Thought: This isn’t just a soccer game — it’s a community celebration honoring our heroes. Come early, stay loud, and enjoy every minute. Go FCC!