Sun Bowl
2026

The 93rd Annual Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl – New Year’s Eve in El Paso!

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The 93rd Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl – December 31, 2026

One of college football’s oldest and most storied bowl games returns to El Paso this New Year’s Eve. The 93rd Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl kicks off on Wednesday, December 31, 2026 at Sun Bowl Stadium, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1935. Don’t miss your chance to ring in the new year with ACC vs. Pac-12/Big 12 postseason action in the heart of the Borderland.

While the participating teams won’t be announced until Selection Sunday in December 2026, you can secure your seats early through our trusted resale marketplace. Last year’s 92nd Sun Bowl delivered an instant classic as the Duke Blue Devils defeated the Arizona State Sun Devils 42-39 in a record-setting shootout that featured over 1,150 yards of combined offense. The 2026 edition promises more of the same high-caliber college football that has made the Sun Bowl a New Year’s Eve tradition for nearly nine decades.

Why Attend the 2026 Sun Bowl?

The Sun Bowl offers a unique bowl game experience unlike any other. Nestled against the stunning Franklin Mountains on the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso, Sun Bowl Stadium provides breathtaking scenery and an intimate college football atmosphere. With approximately 46,000 seats and recent renovations completed in 2020, the venue delivers modern amenities while maintaining its classic charm.

El Paso’s mild December weather – typically ranging from 35-55°F – makes for comfortable outdoor viewing, while the city’s rich Southwestern culture, award-winning cuisine, and proximity to Juárez, Mexico create a memorable travel destination. Whether you’re following your team to the postseason or simply looking for an exciting way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl delivers an experience you won’t forget.

2025 Sun Bowl Recap: Duke 42, Arizona State 39

The 92nd Sun Bowl will go down as one of the most thrilling in the game’s history. Duke quarterback Darian Mensah, who earned MVP honors, threw for 327 yards and four touchdowns – tying a Sun Bowl record – to lead the ACC Champion Blue Devils to victory. The teams combined for a Sun Bowl-record 1,158 yards of total offense, with the first half alone producing 52 combined points – also a record.

Arizona State’s Jeff Sims put on a spectacular performance with 375 passing yards and three touchdowns plus 70 rushing yards and two scores, but a late interception sealed the Sun Devils’ fate. Duke’s Que’Sean Brown hauled in 10 catches for 178 yards and two scores, including the game-winning 17-yard touchdown with just over two minutes remaining. It was Duke’s first Sun Bowl victory, avenging their 36-31 loss to Arizona State in the 2014 edition.

Why Buy Sun Bowl 2026 Tickets Here?

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How to Buy Sun Bowl 2026 Tickets

  1. Browse Verified Listings: View available tickets in the inventory above. All listings come from verified resellers through our secure marketplace.
  2. Select Your Section: Choose from lower bowl sideline seats, club level, end zone sections, or upper deck options. Use the interactive seating chart to find your ideal view.
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  5. Receive Your Tickets: Tickets are delivered via email or mobile transfer in time for the game. Arrive early to soak in the pregame atmosphere!

2026 Sun Bowl Game Details

  • Event: 93rd Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl
  • Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2026 (New Year’s Eve)
  • Time: 2:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM MT (Local)
  • TV: CBS
  • Matchup: ACC vs. Pac-12/Big 12 (Teams TBD – announced December 2026)
  • Venue: Sun Bowl Stadium
  • Location: 2701 Sun Bowl Dr, El Paso, TX 79902
  • Capacity: Approximately 46,000

What Is the Sun Bowl?

The Sun Bowl is one of the oldest and most prestigious bowl games in college football history. First played on January 1, 1936, the Sun Bowl predates most modern bowl games and has been a fixture on the New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day calendar for nearly nine decades. The game traditionally features a matchup between the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) and Pac-12/Big 12 conferences, bringing together two of college football’s most competitive programs each year.

Sponsored by Kellogg’s and officially known as the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl, the game has showcased legendary players and produced countless memorable moments. Past participants include future NFL stars, Heisman Trophy winners, and College Football Hall of Famers. The 2026 edition marks the 93rd playing of this storied tradition, and promises to continue the Sun Bowl’s legacy of exciting postseason football.

About Sun Bowl Stadium

Sun Bowl Stadium opened on September 21, 1963, and has served as the home of the Sun Bowl game ever since. Located on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas, the stadium offers stunning views of the Franklin Mountains and provides a classic college football atmosphere. The venue underwent a $15 million renovation completed in 2020, adding luxury boxes, an outdoor bar, private suites, and outdoor lodges while maintaining its intimate feel.

The stadium features approximately 46,000 seats including wheelchair-accessible spaces, 4 indoor suites, 26 outdoor loge boxes, the GECU Terrace outdoor club, and the Hunt Family Sky Lounge with 104 indoor club seats. In addition to hosting the annual Sun Bowl, the venue is home to UTEP Miners football and has hosted major concerts by artists including Coldplay, U2, The Rolling Stones, and BTS.

Getting to Sun Bowl Stadium

  • Address: 2701 Sun Bowl Dr, El Paso, TX 79902
  • From I-10: Take the Schuster/Sun Bowl exit (18A) to Sun Bowl Drive. Continue toward the roundabout and go straight. At the second roundabout, turn right onto Glory Road.
  • From El Paso International Airport: Approximately 15-20 minutes by car via I-10.
  • Parking: Multiple lots surrounding the stadium and UTEP campus. Approximately 7,900 spaces available. Arrive early for best availability.
  • Rideshare: Designated pickup/drop-off at Glory Road Transit Center on the north end of the stadium.

Sun Bowl Stadium Policies

  • Clear Bag Policy: The venue enforces a clear bag policy for all events.
  • Prohibited Items: No cameras, video cameras, coolers, outside food or drinks allowed.
  • Binoculars: Permitted for personal use.
  • No Re-Entry: Once you exit the stadium, re-entry is not permitted.
  • Children: All patrons 2 years and older require a ticket.
  • Gates Open: Typically 2 hours before kickoff for bowl games.

Sun Bowl History & Records

  • First Game: January 1, 1936 (Hardin-Simmons 14, New Mexico State 14)
  • Years Played: 92 editions through 2025
  • Stadium Era: Sun Bowl Stadium since December 31, 1963
  • Sponsor: Tony the Tiger (Kellogg’s)
  • 2025 Result: Duke 42, Arizona State 39
  • 2025 Records Set: Combined total offense (1,158 yards), first-half points (52), ASU single-team offense (619 yards)
  • Traditional Tie-Ins: ACC vs. Pac-12/Big 12
  • Broadcast: CBS (longtime partner)

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Frequently Asked Questions: 2026 Sun Bowl

When is the 2026 Sun Bowl?

The 93rd Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl takes place on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET (12:00 PM local Mountain Time) at Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas.

Who is playing in the 2026 Sun Bowl?

The 2026 Sun Bowl teams will be announced on Selection Sunday in early December 2026, following the conclusion of the college football regular season and conference championship games. The game traditionally features a matchup between ACC and Pac-12/Big 12 teams.

What channel is the Sun Bowl on?

The Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl airs live on CBS. The 2026 game is scheduled for 2:00 PM ET on Wednesday, December 31, 2026. Check local listings for channel information in your area.

Who won the 2025 Sun Bowl?

The Duke Blue Devils defeated the Arizona State Sun Devils 42-39 in the 92nd Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on December 31, 2025. Duke quarterback Darian Mensah threw for 327 yards and four touchdowns to earn MVP honors. The game set Sun Bowl records for combined total offense (1,158 yards) and first-half points (52).

Where is the Sun Bowl played?

The Sun Bowl is played at Sun Bowl Stadium on the UTEP campus in El Paso, Texas. The stadium is located at 2701 Sun Bowl Drive, El Paso, TX 79902. The venue has hosted the Sun Bowl since December 31, 1963.

What is Sun Bowl Stadium’s capacity?

Sun Bowl Stadium holds approximately 46,000 fans for football games. The venue features 4 indoor suites, 26 outdoor loge boxes, the GECU Terrace outdoor club, and the Hunt Family Sky Lounge with 104 indoor club seats. The stadium was renovated in 2020 with $15 million in upgrades.

How do I get to Sun Bowl Stadium?

From I-10, take the Schuster/Sun Bowl exit (18A) and follow Sun Bowl Drive to the stadium. El Paso International Airport is approximately 15-20 minutes away. Parking is available in multiple lots surrounding the stadium, with approximately 7,900 total spaces. Rideshare pickup is located at Glory Road Transit Center.

What is the bag policy at Sun Bowl Stadium?

Sun Bowl Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Outside food and drinks, coolers, cameras, and video recording equipment are prohibited. Binoculars are permitted. All patrons are subject to security screening upon entry. There is no re-entry once you leave the stadium.

What time do gates open for the Sun Bowl?

Gates at Sun Bowl Stadium typically open 2 hours before kickoff for bowl games. For a 12:00 PM local time kickoff, expect gates to open around 10:00 AM Mountain Time. Check official Sun Bowl communications closer to game day for specific gate times.

What is the weather like in El Paso on New Year’s Eve?

El Paso in late December features mild winter weather with temperatures typically ranging from 35-55°F. The desert climate means low humidity and generally clear skies, but temperatures can drop as the sun sets. Dress in layers for comfort during the outdoor game.

How old is the Sun Bowl?

The Sun Bowl is one of college football’s oldest bowl games. The first Sun Bowl was played on January 1, 1936, making the game nearly 90 years old. The 2026 edition will be the 93rd playing of this historic tradition.

Is parking available at Sun Bowl Stadium?

Yes, approximately 7,900 parking spaces are available surrounding Sun Bowl Stadium and the UTEP campus. Parking lots fill up quickly on game day, so arriving early is recommended. Paid parking is also available at the Sun Bowl Parking Garage adjacent to the stadium.

Can I buy Sun Bowl tickets at the stadium?

The UTEP Ticket Center operates as the box office for Sun Bowl Stadium and is available on game day at the Sun Bowl Box Offices 2 hours prior to kickoff. However, bowl games often sell out in advance, so purchasing tickets early through our marketplace is recommended to guarantee your seats.

What can I do in El Paso during my visit?

El Paso offers numerous attractions for visitors including the El Paso Museum of Art, Franklin Mountains State Park, the historic Mission Trail, and award-winning Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. The city’s proximity to Juárez, Mexico provides unique cross-border experiences. New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout downtown add to the festive bowl game atmosphere.

Is the Sun Bowl a good bowl game?

The Sun Bowl is consistently ranked among the best bowl games outside the New Year’s Six. Its nearly 90-year history, traditional ACC vs. Pac-12/Big 12 matchup, scenic mountain backdrop, and exciting gameplay make it a bucket-list experience for college football fans. The 2025 edition’s record-setting 42-39 thriller proved the Sun Bowl continues to deliver memorable moments.

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Your independent guide to the best live sports in El Paso! This website is operated by a ticket broker. Tickets are listed by third-party sellers and may be above face value.