Everyone’s a Lobo :: UNM Football Games with Kids

As a UNM alum, I’ve been to my share of Lobo football games. But, going with kids is a whole new, exciting, and fun experience that brings a fresh perspective and a sense of nostalgia. This year, UNM football is offering new incentives in efforts to become a more family-friendly activity to be enjoyed by all New Mexico families.

It is the perfect time to take advantage of all UNM football has to offer for an affordable “family-friendly” price. If it isn’t already, this could be a new, fun fall family event!

With the ”Kids Free Initiative,”  fans purchasing one adult North Endzone general admission ticket can get up to two youth tickets for children 12 and under for the same section. (Note that this offer won’t apply to the rivalry game against NMSU on Sep 26.)

Louie Lane debuted this year, providing an exciting and family-friendly tailgating experience with yard games, food, music, a beer garden, and more. Entrance is free!

The University of New Mexico Athletics Department is offering another exciting initiative: the $4 value menu. The aim here is to make some classic football snacks more affordable. The menu includes hot dogs, popcorn, Pepsi products, and water, and it is available at the main west, northwest, and northeast concessions in the stadium.

Although not at a special price, we had to grab a snow cone because they’re just that good! Misters were also provided throughout the stadium to help escape the heat of the day, a much-appreciated extra amenity for adults carting around kids and items!

The game was full of spirit and cheering fans. It was a wonderful time spent with family and friends, and a core memory was made for all involved!

There was much more to see than just the football game: the UNM spirit program performed a fun upbeat number during the halftime show that included the song You’ve Got a Friend in Me from the beloved Pixar movie “Toy Story” which my toddler was happy to hear along with other littles in the crowd.

The Lobos came out with their first win of the season 32-22 (1-1), and this particular game had over 17,000 fans—the most fans in attendance in recent years.

UNM fans’ creed “Lobo faithful” held true and showed out not only in size but in sound! As always, our favorite mascots Lobo Louie and Lobo Lucy were there to join them in cheering UNM’s motto “Everyone’s a Lobo!” Iykyk!

Ready to support our Lobos? Here’s how!

Where?

University Stadium – 1111 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM, 87106

When?

The season starts at the end of August and lasts through November. The 2025 schedule can be found here.

Hours?

There are both day and night games to be enjoyed, although times vary.

How much?

Ticket prices vary depending on the desired seats. Get there early to purchase in person, or you can purchase online ahead of time here. For more information or questions, click the link, the football tab, and then the “kids free initiative” tab.

Where should I sit?

Everyone’s a Lobo! The west side of the stadium is the HOME side! As previously stated, seats will vary with pricing, so whatever works out for your family.

Where do I park?

Lots open six hours prior to the game. Check out the game day parking map here if you want to self-park. When my family attended, we parked in the Pit west parking for $15. Keep in mind it was a bit of a walk.

A great alternative to self-parking is the shuttle services. Check out the shuttle maps here. The service runs an hour before the game and up to an hour after the game. A round trip using the shuttle is $5 per person.

Other fun things to note:

• Lobo Kids Dash: Children aged 7–12 can participate in a 100-yard dash on the field before the UNM marching band’s pre-game performance. Spots are limited and available at the sign-up tent near Gate 8 on game days.
• Lil’ Lobo Kids Club: A club for kids in 8th grade and younger offered free admission to select games, a t-shirt, and other exclusive events.
• On-field Contests: For home games, fans are selected to come on the field to participate in contests and win prizes.
• Fall Family Weekend: At the game against Nevada on October 18, 2025, UNM hosts a family weekend with a special tailgate and other festivities for families of UNM students.
• Themed games: Hispanic Heritage celebration, a Salute to Service game to recognize military members and first responders, and a “Lobos Love Pink” breast cancer awareness game.

Tips for families:

• There is a clear bag policy; you can find all the information on that here. Diaper bags (with infant) are permitted and subject to a thorough inspection.

• If you need an elevator because of stroller needs, there are two on the west side of the stadium near gate 3. Strollers must be collapsible and fit under your seat.

• Emergency assistance is available at the Command Post located on the concourse level at the north end of the stadium. Any parents or guardians with a lost child should contact the nearest law enforcement officer or staff member. Lost children are taken to the command post at the north end of the stadium near gate 5.

• Outside food or drinks are not permitted, but exceptions will be made for the needs of babies/small children.

Go Lobos!

For cheer on another local team, check out our Guide to the NM United Games for Families.