MNUFC vs. Atlanta: 5 Must-Knows Before Kickoff (Aug 19)
Minnesota United’s 10th Season Celebration: Everything You Need to Know for the Big Game!
What’s Happening?
Hey there, Loons fans! Minnesota United is turning 10 years old in Major League Soccer, and they’re throwing a massive birthday party at Allianz Field! The team is hosting Atlanta United for a special rematch — the exact same opponent they faced in their very first MLS home game back in 2017 at TCF Bank Stadium.
After a dramatic last-minute goal by Joaquín Pereyra against Real Salt Lake, the Loons are back in playoff position and hungry for three points. Atlanta United just beat Red Bull New York, so they’re coming in hot too. It’s going to be an absolute banger, and we’re all hoping for another epic "Wonderwall" sing-along at the stadium!
Pregame Fun: Get There Early!
The party starts way before kickoff. Here’s what’s happening on the Great Lawn:
Sun Country Pre-Party (Starts at 5:00 PM)
- Live music
- Food trucks and tasty treats
- Giveaways galore
- MNUFC Alumni Meet & Greet at 5:45 PM — Get autographs and selfies with legends like:
- Romain Métanire
- Ike Opara
- Adrian Heath
- And more former players!
Cool Photo Spots
- Target’s Photo Wall — Sparkly 10-year anniversary mural + jerseys from the past decade
- Allianz Chalk Art — A 3D "Free Farmers Market" drawing perfect for Instagram pics
- Video Board Chance — Pose for a live shot and you might end up on the big screen!
IMPORTANT TIP: Arrive at least 20 minutes before kickoff. Lines move fast if you have your digital ticket ready and follow the bag policy.
Special Year 10 Celebrations During the Game
This isn’t just any match — it’s a history lesson come to life!
| Time | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| Pregame | Ceremony honoring 50 years of Minnesota soccer alumni |
| Halftime | Team of the Decade presented by Allianz — fan-voted best players from 10 years, with several attending in person! |
| All Game | Original TV voices Cal Williams & Kyndra de St. Aubin reuniting in the booth to call the action! |
Merch & Free Stuff — Don’t Miss Out!
Decade Collection
Brand new Black & Blue gear celebrating 10 seasons. Available now at the Black and Blue Team Store — rep the history in style!
Club & Country Scarf
Bought the Club and Country Ticket Pack? You get an exclusive scarf!
Pick it up at Ticket Central (outside Section 17) before the second half starts.
FREE Year 10 Poster
15,000 posters up for grabs — first come, first served on your way OUT of the stadium after the game. Compliments of Allianz!
Fan Fuel: Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Food Options
- Check the interactive menu map for all choices
- Premium ticket holders: Special menus for Field Club, Upper 90 Club & Stadium Club
- EJ Williams from Two Mixed Up serving sliders & cookies in Section 30
Specialty Cocktail (21+)
"Loons Blues" — Gin + blue raspberry syrup + sparkling wine
Available at Grand Casino Brew Hall and premium spaces.
In-Game Honors: Local Heroes Recognized
| Award | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Allina Scoreboard Keeper of the Game | Samantha Archer |
| SeatGeek Fan of the Game | Michelle Patzlaff |
| NutriSource SuperStars | Nibs and Scout |
| Target L’Étoile du Nord | Don Tastad |
| Xcel Energy Eye of the Loon | Heidi Munson (U.S. Army) |
| Game Ball Delivery | Meghan (Finley’s ambassador) |
Do Some Good While You’re At It!
Pop Tabs for Ronald McDonald House
- Drop can tabs in bins on trash cans (inside & outside)
- Bring tabs from home too!
- Supports Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Upper Midwest
Sort Your Trash!
Use the BizRecycling & WM bins for:
- Recycling
- Organics (food waste)
- Trash
Refill, Don’t Landfill
6 water stations around the concourse (Sections 9, 15, 21, 25, 30, 36)
- Bring empty, clear plastic bottles
- Press the button (not motion-activated!)
- Partnered with Ecolab for sustainability
Quick Checklist: Your Game Day Game Plan
- Arrive by 5:00 PM for the full pre-party experience
- Bring digital tickets + approved bag (check policy!)
- Hit the Great Lawn for alumni autographs at 5:45 PM
- Snap pics at the photo wall and chalk art
- Grab food early — check the map for your favorites
- Watch the pregame ceremony (50 years of MN soccer!)
- Cheer loud for the Team of the Decade at halftime
- Try the Loons Blues cocktail (if 21+)
- Drop pop tabs in collection bins
- Sort your waste in the right bins
- Refill your water bottle at any of the 6 stations
- Grab your FREE poster on the way OUT!
Summary
Minnesota United’s 10th Anniversary Celebration vs Atlanta United is way more than a soccer game — it’s a full-blown festival! From alumni meet-and-greets and historic ceremonies to exclusive merch, free posters, specialty cocktails, and community giving — there’s something for every fan. Get there early, come hungry, bring your reusable bottle, and don’t forget to sing "Wonderwall" at the top of your lungs. COME ON YOU LOONS!
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. What time should I actually get to the stadium?
Be there by 5:00 PM! The Sun Country Pre-Party starts then, alumni arrive at 5:45 PM, and you’ll want time for photos, food, and finding your seat without rushing.
2. Can I bring my backpack?
Only if it follows the bag policy. Small bags are okay — big backpacks usually aren’t. Check the link to be safe!
3. How do I get the free Year 10 poster?
On your way OUT after the game. There are 15,000 posters — first come, first served. Don’t leave early or you’ll miss it!
4. I bought the Club and Country Ticket Pack — where’s my scarf?
Go to Ticket Central outside Section 17 before the second half starts. Don’t wait until after the game!
5. Are the water stations really free?
Yes! Bring an empty clear plastic bottle and refill at any of the 6 stations (Sections 9, 15, 21, 25, 30, 36). Just remember to press the button — they’re not automatic.
See you at Allianz Field! Let’s make Year 10 unforgettable!