Wake Forest-Akron Fan Guide: Parking, Gates and Game-Day Timeline for Sept. 3

Wake Forest opens its 2026 home football schedule Thursday night against Akron at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, and the university has released a full game-day guide for fans heading to Winston-Salem.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on Sept. 3, with the game airing on ACC Network. Parking lots open at 2 p.m., the student tailgate and DEACTOWN Fan Zone begin at 4 p.m., the Deacon Walk is scheduled for 4:45 p.m., stadium gates open at 5:30 p.m. and pregame ceremonies begin at 6:30 p.m. Wake Forest lists its Open the Gate moment for 6:57 p.m.

For fans still making plans, day-of-game parking is listed at $20 in designated lots around LJVM Coliseum, Allegacy and Pepsi areas. Wake Forest is also offering free parking at 2400 Reynolda Road with shuttle service beginning two hours before kickoff. The new Faculty Drive pedestrian gate and trail connection through The Grounds will be available beginning three hours before kickoff and remain open for 90 minutes after the game.

Wake Forest says concessions are cashless. The school is also promoting a four-ticket package for the Akron game starting at $76 that includes four tickets, a parking pass, a $20 concessions credit and a 20% Deacon Shop discount code, subject to availability.

Fans should also note the stadium clear-bag policy: permitted clear bags may be no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches, while small clutch bags may be up to 6.5 by 4.5 inches. Backpacks, including clear backpacks, umbrellas and outside food or beverages are among the prohibited items listed in the game-day guide.

The season opener will also feature the Wake Forest Spirit of the Old Gold & Black and Winston-Salem State University Red Sea of Sound bands performing together at halftime.