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College football’s 11th most historic bowl game will celebrate its 50th playing in December, and the Independence Bowl Foundation announced Thursday afternoon year-long festivities celebrating the 50th anniversary leading into game day.
The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl will use a variety of avenues to celebrate the 50th anniversary in the community, online through social media and website interaction with fans, and during bowl week and on game day to culminate the celebration. The Foundation held a press conference to discuss its plans Thursday afternoon, followed by the Second Annual Independence Bowl Overtime party that was open to the public.
“There are only 35 communities in the country with the privilege of hosting a college football bowl game each year, and for our community to do that for 50 years says something powerful,” said Keith Burton, 2026 Independence Bowl Foundation Chairman. “It says we understand that major events like this do not just happen; they are built by people who care enough to invest their time, resources and energy into something bigger than themselves.
“Fifty years is more than an anniversary. It is a testament to a community that believed it could host something special; to the leaders, volunteers, sponsors, city and parish partners, board members, coaches, student-athletes and fans who continued showing up year after year; and to Shreveport-Bossier’s ability to welcome the nation, celebrate college football and create memories that last far beyond one game.”
Bowl officials provided a breakdown of the various elements of the celebration and how fans can participate in celebrating the milestone.
Community events & initiatives: online fan time capsule; downtown fireworks & drone show; 50-year yard signs;
Fan engagement: #IndyBowl50 Campaign; summer of giveaways; 50th anniversary beer collaboration with Great Raft Brewing; interactive trivia series;
Gameday experiences: themed tailgate experience; honoring the legends;
Merchandise & memorabilia: anniversary merchandise; commemorative print and posters; commemorative coins;
Storytelling: documentary: all-time team selection; fan memory submissions; throwback content series.
Fans can stay up to date on all the 50th anniversary festivities throughout the year by visiting RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com or following the bowl at @IndyBowl on Facebook, X and Instagram.
The first public activity in a series of year-round community events, the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Youth Football Clinic, returns to Independence Stadium for its 15th edition on Saturday, June 6 from 8-11 a.m.
It is a free, non-contact clinic and is open to boys and girls ages five through 13 (incoming eighth graders). Registration for the clinic is limited to the first 400 registrants, so parents are encouraged to register their child for the clinic in advance at IndependenceBowl.org/youth-football-clinic.