Get ready to saddle up for a month of unforgettable athletic action and community traditions! As September rolls in, it’s a thrilling time for sports fanatics and visitors alike. McNeese State University is kicking off the fall season with a diverse lineup of athletic events, from the gridiron of Cowboys Football to the Legacy Center for Cowgirls Volleyball and to the field for Cowgirl Soccer. We’ve also got Mixed Martial Arts and cornhole to throw into the mix as well. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just passing through, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the competitive and lively energy of McNeese State University and experience all Louisiana’s Playground has to offer.
The McNeese Cowboys Football team hosts the Weber State Wildcats on September 13th at Navarre Stadium, bringing an exciting non-conference matchup to Lake Charles. The Cowboys are looking to defend their home turf with hard-hitting defense and explosive plays on offense, all part of what makes football so electric in Southwest Louisiana. But of course, what would football be without the tailgates? McNeese State University is known for its ‘rowdy’ pre-game traditions, and they’ve even extended the party to the night before. Every Friday night before a home game, you'll find a vibrant atmosphere filled with McNeese students, loyal fans, and local food trucks. The Cowboy Block Party is a completely free, family-friendly event to celebrate the Cowboys with drinks, food, and live music (BYOB). So, get your cowboy boots on and get ready for one of the most exciting football seasons yet! Take a peek at the rest of the season schedule here and grab your tickets here!
2025 Cowboy Block Party Lineup:
Friday, September 12 – Molly Ringwalds
- Friday, October 3 – Flamethrowers
- Friday, October 17 – LA ROXX
- Friday, October 31 – Chee Weez
-Friday, November 14 – Steel Shot
The Lake Charles Event Center is thrilled to welcome back the American Cornhole Organization on September 5th and 6th. What was once just a classic backyard game has grown into one of the fastest-rising sports in the country, drawing players of all ages and skill levels. Cornhole’s accessibility is one of its greatest strengths - easy to learn, fun to master, and inclusive for individuals with and without disabilities to play together. This September, top competitors from across the nation will gather in Lake Charles to put their accuracy and tossing skills to the test, all with the hopes of being crowned cornhole champion. Beyond the boards, guests can enjoy great Southern food, refreshing drinks, and the friendly atmosphere that makes Lake Charles a favorite stop for players and fans alike. If you’re looking for competition, community, and a cool spot to beat the Louisiana heat, the Lake Charles Event Center is the place to be.
And football isn’t the only thing heating up this month! McNeese Cowgirl Volleyball is also in full swing. The Cowgirl Classic takes place September 4th through the 6th, where the Cowgirls will battle Alcorn, UT-Arlington, and UL-Monroe across a thrilling weekend tournament. They’ll also host the Southern Jaguars at the Legacy Center on September 16th. With free admission, themed nights, and nonstop energy, Cowgirl Volleyball games are the perfect way for students, faculty, and families to show their school spirit. Don’t miss the chance to cheer on your Pokes across campus this September—the full schedule can be found here!
McNeese Cowgirls Soccer takes the September spotlight as well, as the Cowgirls face the Sam Houston State Bearkats on the 11th and the East Texas A&M Lions on the 25th. With players from all over the world, including Canada, Chile, Turkey, the Netherlands, Sweden, and more, the Cowgirls bring a diverse set of talents to the field- promising a good show. Check out the complete soccer schedule here. McNeese Cowgirls and Cowboys Cross Country will be competing for the gold in September as well, as they host the 2025 Cowboy Stampede. If you’re looking for something free and entertaining to do, try checking out the soccer and cross-country scene right here in Lake Charles!
And in exciting news, a brand-new event to the September lineup this year. The Ragin Fighting Championships #3 action will go down on September 20th at the Lake Charles Event Center, bringing an adrenaline-packed night of Mixed Marital Arts to Southwest Louisiana. Fans can expect nonstop energy, fierce matchups, and a showcase of some of the most talented fighters in the region. Whether you’re a longtime MMA fan or experiencing the sport for the first time, RFC #3 promises a thrilling night you won’t want to miss. Secure your seats now and get ready for the fight card of the season. Grab your tickets here.
More sporting events and details can be found on our calendar of events! For the need-to-know information, big-game updates, and successes of the sporting world in SWLA, be sure to check out Where Champions are Crowned, released on the first of each month on visitlakecharles.org. Let’s Play!
