The Benton Panthers and Bryant Hornets revealed the schedule for game week in the 2026 Salt Bowl rivalry showdown, to be held at Hornet Stadium this year.
The game will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with the patriotic theme “Stars, Stripes and Friday Night Lights.” Read the schedule below.
🏈 Aug 25 – Pep Rallies
Game week festivities will officially begin on Tuesday, Aug. 25, with dual community pep rallies at 6 p.m.
- The Benton Panthers will rally at Everett Infiniti, 21000 I-30 Frontage Rd, Benton, AR 72019.
- The Bryant Hornets will gather at Everett Buick GMC, 21115 I-30, Bryant, AR 72022.
🏈 Aug 26 – Press Conference
On Wednesday, Aug. 26, the community is invited to the Salt Bowl luncheon and Coaches and Players’ Press Conference. Sponsored by First Security Bank, the event will take place 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Saline County Career & Technical Campus.
Coaches and players from both teams will be in attendance to discuss the upcoming game. Admission is free and lunch is provided, though attendees are asked to register in advance at this link.
🏈 Aug 28 – Tailgate
The annual Salt Bowl Tailgate Party will kick off at 4 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 28 near Hornet Stadium. Limited vendor booth spaces are available for the tailgate event. Businesses and organizations interested in becoming a vendor can find registration details at www.mysaline.com/salt-bowl-2026-vendors.
🏈 Aug 28 – Game
Finally, the highly anticipated football game will kick off at 7 p.m. The matchup switches locations this year to Bryant’s Hornet Stadium after being hosted at Panther Stadium last season.
Organizers are urging fans to be prepared, as tickets are expected to sell out fast. Ticket purchasing information and parking details will be available soon from each school.
If you have any questions about the press conference or tailgate, call the Benton Chamber at 501-860-7002.
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