The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are gearing up for their biggest showdown of the season — the 2025 Eastern Final — set for Saturday, November 8 at Hamilton Stadium. The highly anticipated matchup will feature the team’s signature “Blackout Game”, with fans encouraged to arrive early, dress in black, and bring the noise as the Ticats aim to secure a spot in the 112th Grey Cup in Winnipeg.
A sold-out crowd is expected to turn the stadium into a sea of black and gold, radiating Tiger-Cats pride across the city. Club legends such as Luke Tasker, Brandon Banks, and Chris Van Zeyl, along with other alumni, will join the celebrations to mark the occasion.
The day promises to be more than just football — it will be a full-scale community celebration packed with playoff intensity, a live halftime show by Canadian rock band The Trews, and expanded fan experiences throughout the event. Gates open early at 1 p.m. ET, giving fans a chance to enjoy the pre-game buzz.
“There’s nothing like playoff football in Hamilton,” said Matt Afinec, President and COO of Hamilton Sports Group. “But this will go beyond the game — it’s a citywide celebration of Hamilton football. We’ve built an event our community can truly rally around.”
Pre-Game Festivities:
The excitement kicks off in the South Plaza at 12:30 p.m. ET, featuring live entertainment, giveaways, and interactive fan zones. The in-stadium atmosphere will build with a pre-game concert by Thunderstruck, an AC/DC tribute band sure to set the tone before kickoff.
Halftime Entertainment:
The Trews will deliver a high-energy performance during halftime, keeping fans fired up for the second half of the Eastern Final.
In-Stadium Highlights Include:
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Blackout Rally Towels for all fans
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Performance by the Burlington Teen Tour Band
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Special Remembrance Day tribute by Argylls Pipes and Drums
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Appearances from Tiger-Cats Alumni of Distinction Legends
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A military flyover
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An expanded Eastern Final Kickoff Show on the big screen
The Eastern Final broadcast begins at 2:30 p.m. ET, with kickoff scheduled for 3 p.m. ET on TSN.
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