Big Game
2026
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Big Game 2026: The Bay Area's Ultimate College Football Rivalry
The Big Game between the California Golden Bears and Stanford Cardinal stands as the oldest college football rivalry in the Western United States, dating back to 1892 when future U.S. President Herbert Hoover helped organize the inaugural contest. The 129th Big Game in 2026 continues this storied tradition, with both Bay Area institutions battling for bragging rights and the legendary Stanford Axe trophy that has defined this rivalry for over a century.
A Rivalry Born in the Golden State
On March 19, 1892, at San Francisco's Haight Street Grounds, Stanford and Cal faced off in the first Big Game. Organizers printed tickets for 10,000 spectators, but 20,000 fans showed up—a testament to the immediate passion this rivalry ignited. Legend has it that nobody remembered to bring a football to that first game, but a tradition was born nonetheless. Stanford won that inaugural meeting 14-10, launching what would become one of college football's most enduring rivalries.
With the exception of wartime interruptions during World War I and World War II, the Big Game has been played every year since, building a rivalry that defines Bay Area college football. The Stanford Athletics and Cal Bears Athletics websites chronicle this rich history that has produced legendary players, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments that resonate across generations of fans.
The Stanford Axe: A Trophy Like No Other
No college football trophy has a more colorful history than the Stanford Axe. First brandished by Stanford yell leader Billy Erb in 1899 at a baseball game, the Axe was stolen by Cal students just days later, sparking decades of theft, conspiracy, and elaborate heists. The Axe remained at Berkeley until 1930, when a group of Stanford students—forever known as the "Immortal 21"—executed an audacious recovery mission involving fake photographers, smoke bombs, and a multi-car getaway.
In 1933, both universities agreed to make the Axe the official Big Game trophy, awarded annually to the victor. The Axe's handle records the score of every Big Game since, with one notable exception: when Stanford possesses the trophy, they change the 1982 score from "California 25-20" to "Stanford 20-19"—a pointed commentary on the most controversial finish in rivalry history.
"The Play" and Big Game Lore
The 1982 Big Game produced what many consider the most famous play in college football history. With seconds remaining and Stanford leading 20-19, Cal's kickoff return featured five rugby-style laterals as the Stanford Band prematurely rushed the field. Cal's Kevin Moen weaved through band members—famously running over trombonist Gary Tyrrell—to score the winning touchdown. Joe Starkey's radio call lives in sports broadcasting immortality: "Oh, the band is out on the field! ... He's gonna go into the end zone!" Stanford disputes the play's legality to this day, but the official result stands.
Complete Guide to Big Game 2026 Tickets
Whether you bleed blue and gold or cardinal red, securing your Big Game 2026 tickets means experiencing one of college football's most passionate rivalry atmospheres. Our trusted ticket marketplace connects fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets to this Bay Area tradition, complete with buyer protection on every purchase.
Big Game Venues: Two Iconic Bay Area Stadiums
California Memorial Stadium (Even Years: 2026)
Following the traditional rotation, the 129th Big Game is expected to be played at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley. Opened in 1923 as a memorial to Californians who served in World War I, this historic venue seats approximately 63,000 fans in one of college football's most scenic settings. The stadium's position at the foot of the Berkeley Hills provides panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in college football.
Memorial Stadium underwent a $321 million renovation completed in 2012, updating the historic venue with modern amenities while preserving its neoclassical architecture. The stadium is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Above the eastern rim, Tightwad Hill offers free views for fans watching from outside the stadium—a unique Big Game tradition dating back decades.
Stanford Stadium (Odd Years)
When the Big Game rotates to Stanford, the Cardinal host at Stanford Stadium, a 50,424-seat venue rebuilt in 2006. The intimate configuration brings fans close to the action on the natural grass Louis W. Foster Family Field. Stanford Stadium has hosted historic events including Super Bowl XIX, World Cup matches, and Olympic soccer. The eucalyptus groves surrounding the stadium create a distinctive tailgating environment unique to The Farm.
Big Game Week Traditions
The Big Game isn't just a football game—it's a week-long celebration of school spirit and tradition at both universities:
Cal Traditions
Big Game Week at Berkeley includes the famous Big Game Bonfire Rally at Hearst Greek Theatre, where more than 10,000 students gather on the eve of the game. The UC Rally Committee organizes cable car rallies in San Francisco, dorm visits, and the ceremonial countdown. Cal students perform the Haka, a traditional Maori war dance adopted in the 1960s. The cry of "Roll On You Bears!" echoes across campus throughout the week.
Stanford Traditions
At Stanford, the Stanford Axe Committee leads celebrations including the train whistle countdown—blowing a whistle every hour for the 129 hours leading to kickoff. The "Bearial"—a mock funeral procession featuring a stuffed bear in a casket—proceeds through campus. Gaieties, a student-written musical dating to 1911, celebrates and satirizes the rivalry. Hoover Tower glows red and campus fountains run cardinal-colored in the days before the game.
Big Game Week Sports Matchups
Football isn't the only competition during Big Game Week. Cal and Stanford face off across multiple sports with their own themed names:
- The Big Splash – Water Polo
- The Big Spike – Volleyball
- The Big Sail – Sailing at St. Francis Yacht Club
- The Big Row – Rowing (honoring Cal coxswain Jill Costello)
- The Big Freeze – Ice Hockey
- The Ink Bowl – Flag football between student newspapers
All-Time Series and Notable Players
Stanford leads the all-time series 65-51-11 through 128 meetings. The Cardinal dominated from 2010-2018, winning nine consecutive Big Games, before Cal broke through in 2019 with a dramatic fourth-quarter touchdown to reclaim the Axe after a decade. Cal then won four straight from 2021-2024 before Stanford reclaimed the Axe in 2025.
The rivalry has featured legendary players who became NFL stars. Stanford's roster of greats includes John Elway, Jim Plunkett, Andrew Luck, Christian McCaffrey, and Toby Gerhart. Cal counters with Aaron Rodgers, Tony Gonzalez, Marshawn Lynch, DeSean Jackson, and Jared Goff. Combined, the programs have placed 36 players in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Conference Realignment: A New Chapter
The 2024 season marked a new era as both Cal and Stanford joined the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) following the dissolution of the Pac-12. Despite the conference change and increased travel for both programs, the Big Game remains a protected rivalry, ensuring these Bay Area neighbors will continue their annual battle for the Axe regardless of conference alignment.
How to Get Big Game 2026 Tickets
- Determine the venue – Following traditional rotation, the 2026 Big Game (129th edition) should be held at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley.
- Mark your calendar – The Big Game is traditionally played the Saturday before Thanksgiving, typically the third or fourth Saturday of November.
- Monitor ticket sales – Official tickets become available through university athletics departments. Student tickets are distributed through each school.
- Shop the resale market – For sold-out games, trusted resale marketplaces offer verified tickets with buyer protection.
- Plan transportation – BART serves Berkeley (Downtown Berkeley station); Caltrain serves Palo Alto. Both stadiums have limited parking.
Frequently Asked Questions: Big Game 2026
When is the Big Game 2026?
The Big Game 2026 will be the 129th meeting between Cal and Stanford. The game is traditionally played on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, typically falling on the third or fourth Saturday of November. The exact date will be confirmed when the 2026 college football schedule is released.
Where will the Big Game 2026 be played?
Following the traditional alternating pattern, the 2026 Big Game (129th edition) is expected to be played at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, as even-numbered years are typically hosted by Cal. The 2025 game was played at Stanford Stadium, with Stanford reclaiming the Axe in a 31-10 victory.
What is the Stanford Axe?
The Stanford Axe is the trophy awarded to the winner of the Big Game. First introduced by a Stanford yell leader in 1899, the Axe was stolen by Cal students two days later and remained at Berkeley until 1930. In 1933, both schools agreed to make it the official Big Game trophy. The winner's name and score are engraved on the Axe handle after each game.
Who has won more Big Games?
Stanford leads the all-time series 65-51-11 through 128 meetings. The series includes 11 ties from before the NCAA instituted overtime in 1996. Stanford's longest winning streak is nine games from 2010-2018, while Cal's longest modern streak is four games from 2021-2024.
What was "The Play" in the 1982 Big Game?
"The Play" refers to the final kickoff return of the 1982 Big Game, considered one of college football's most famous plays. With Stanford leading 20-19 and seconds remaining, Cal's kickoff return featured five laterals and ended with Kevin Moen running through the Stanford Band (which had prematurely taken the field) for the winning touchdown. Stanford disputes the play's legality but the result stands.
How much do Big Game tickets cost?
Big Game ticket prices vary based on seating location, venue, and demand. Face-value tickets typically range from $50 for upper-level seats to $150+ for premium sideline locations. Resale market prices fluctuate based on both teams' records and Axe possession stakes. Historically significant matchups command premium prices.
What conference are Cal and Stanford in?
Both Cal and Stanford joined the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2024 following the dissolution of the Pac-12. Despite the conference change, the Big Game remains a protected annual rivalry. Both schools traveled significantly longer distances for most conference games but maintained their traditional Bay Area matchup.
What is Tightwad Hill?
Tightwad Hill is a hillside overlooking the eastern end of California Memorial Stadium where fans can watch Big Game and other Cal football games for free. Located about 100 feet above the stadium, it offers a unique viewing experience and has been a Berkeley tradition for decades.
Can I tailgate at the Big Game?
Yes, tailgating is a cherished Big Game tradition at both venues. Stanford's eucalyptus groves offer a distinctive atmosphere, while Berkeley's areas around Memorial Stadium fill with blue and gold. Both schools have specific tailgating policies—check official athletics websites for current rules and permitted locations.
What are the stadium capacities?
California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley seats approximately 63,000 fans following its 2012 renovation. Stanford Stadium holds 50,424 after its 2006 rebuild. Both venues have significantly smaller capacities than their historical peaks—Memorial Stadium once held 85,000 and Stanford Stadium reached 85,500.
How do I get to the Big Game?
For games in Berkeley, BART's Downtown Berkeley station is about a 15-minute walk to Memorial Stadium. For Stanford games, Caltrain to Palo Alto Station connects to the free Marguerite Shuttle or a 20-minute walk. Both schools encourage public transit as parking is limited at both venues.
What Big Game traditions should I know about?
Key traditions include the Stanford Axe trophy presentation, Cal's Big Game Bonfire Rally at Hearst Greek Theatre, Stanford's train whistle countdown and Bearial ceremony, the Axe Yell ("Give 'em the Axe!"), Cal's performance of the Haka, and the Gaieties musical at Stanford. Both schools dye campus fountains in their school colors during Big Game Week.
Are Big Game tickets transferable?
Official ticket transfer policies vary by university and ticket type. Student tickets typically have restrictions, while general public tickets may be more freely transferred. Resale marketplace purchases include authentication and transfer assistance. Always verify transfer policies before purchasing.
What should I wear to the Big Game?
Fans traditionally wear their school colors—blue and gold for Cal, cardinal red for Stanford. Both fan bases take color coordination seriously, creating striking visual displays in their respective stadium sections. November weather in the Bay Area can be cool, so layering is recommended regardless of which side you support.
Who are the most famous Big Game players?
Stanford legends include John Elway, Jim Plunkett, Andrew Luck, Christian McCaffrey, Toby Gerhart, and Ernie Nevers. Cal's greats include Aaron Rodgers, Tony Gonzalez, Marshawn Lynch, DeSean Jackson, Joe Kapp, and Chuck Muncie. Combined, the programs have sent 36 players to the College Football Hall of Fame.