Bulls Welcome Back Blast

The Countdown is On

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Celebrate the new school year with UB's biggest spirit rally of 2026! This free event features UB athletes, the Thunder of the East Marching Band, incredible entertainment, ice cream compliments of Perry’s and a spectacular fireworks finale. A live DJ kicks-off the event Saturday night August 22 where you will meet all of our UB Athletics teams and get sneak peek at our 2026 UB Football team. Gates at Broadview Stadium open at 7:30 p.m. with the rally starting at 8:30 p.m. You won't want to miss this!

Meet our Hosts

Hosts Heather Prusak and Peter Johnson.

Hosted by Peter Johnson and Heather Prusak, hosts of That UB Life: Extra.

Leon Etienne on stage.

With Special Guest Co-host Illusionist Leon Etienne of Magic Rocks

Incredible Entertainment - All Appearing at the Blast

From NBC's The Voice: Letter to Elise

Letter to Elise band standing on a hill.

Special musical performance by Western New York's own Letter to Elise, from NBC's The Voice.

Watch Letter to Elise in their Voice battle

From America's Got Talent: Loop Rawlins

Loop Rawlins in a lasso.

Live performance by Wild West star Loop Rawlins, from NBC's AGT. Plus an inflatable bull-riding student competition you won't want to miss!

Watch Loop Rawlins on America's Got Talent

Smartphone Lightshow with UB's own Thunder of the East Marching Band

Take part in UB's first ever spirit rally lightshow, featuring UB's Thunder of the East Marching Band and your 2026 UB Bulls! Join thousands of UB students in creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Together, we will light up Broadview Stadium to kick off the new academic year!

Smartphone Lightshow

Illustration of UB student watching fireworks at the stadium.

Spirit Lives Here

America's Got Talent Finalist and Golden Buzzer Act: Light Balance

Light Balance performance.

Witness a jaw-dropping world-class neon & LED performance from Light Balance, an NBC America’s Got Talent Finalist!

Watch Light Balance behind the scenes on America's Got Talent All Stars

Fireworks Finale

Illustration of UB student watching fireworks at the stadium.

End this incredible night with a dazzling display of colors and effects, as our fireworks show comes alive, presented by the UB Student Association. The finale will feature complimentary enhancement glasses, turning every burst into a breathtaking spectacle. Don't miss this unforgettable experience as Broadview Stadium lights up the night!

More to Explore

UB Football All Access

Get a behind-the-scenes preview with Peter Johnson and Coach Lembo in preparation for UB Football's home opener vs Albany, on September 3. Get your UB Football tickets today!

Past Welcome Back Blasts

Take a peek at the 2025 Welcome Back Blast, which featured national talent at a packed Broadview Stadium!

Know Before You Go

UB Athletics Bag Policy

Approved*

  • Clear tote
    • 12"x6"x12"            
  • Plastic bag
    • 1-gallon, clear resealable
  • Seat cushion
    • No arms or pockets; no larger than 16"
  • Cross-body bag
    • No larger than 7"x5"
  • Clutch/small purse
    • No larger than 7"x5"; may include handle or strap
  • Fanny pack
    • No larger than 7"x5"
  • Diaper bag
    • Diaper bags and bags for medical needs permitted but will be inspected upon entry.

*All bags are subject to search

Not Permitted

  • Backpack
  • Drawstring bag
  • Camera bag
  • Binocular case

Event Sponsors

Perry's Ice Cream logo.
UB Spirit Mark.

Campus Partners:

This event is presented by:

  • Division of Student Life
  • Division of Athletics
  • Student Association
  • Campus Dining and Shops
  • Alumni Engagement
  • Parking and Transportation
True Blue Banner.

What makes you #UBTrueBlue?