Fans are being asked to arrive early and pack patience as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers gear up for a home opener like no other.

The Bombers are welcoming the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Thursday evening, their first game since 2019's Grey Cup Championship. This long-awaited moment is something Winnipeg Football Club President and CEO Wade Miller and his team have been working towards since the pandemic hit.

"We are looking forward to a great season to defend our championship," Miller says. He is most looking forward to "seeing our players back on the fields, and our coaches, and our fans in the stands."

Once fans arrive, Miller says they can expect a treat - some concessions will be priced lower than usual before kickoff. Fans will hear the house band, led by singer Jennifer Hanson, play as they enter the stadium, waiting for the Grey Cup Championship ceremony to start at 7:30. Hanson has performed across the country, including singing national anthems and NHL games.

Miller is asking fans to arrive at the stadium when their gates open at 6 p.m. Thursday, saying it will take their staff longer than usual to scan everyone through. The usual transit options are back this year with onsite parking, bike valet, and the Park and Ride system. New this year is the BLUE rapid transit line's Winnipeg Transit Park & Ride.

"It is everyone's first game day as well. Let's just be patient with us as we work to get everybody into the stadium."

One thousand people made up the Bomber's staff this week.

During the game, Miller has a task for fans.

"This is the CFL's loudest stadium and it is because of our fans. We look forward to seeing how many time counts our fans can create for the Tiger-Cats."

Other changes include the stadium going cash-less. 

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