Are you ready for some football?

The Centennial Park District sure is.

Over the past few years, downtown Atlanta's "premiere entertainment district," as the area anchored by Centennial Olympic Park bills itself, has become home to major attractions ranging from the College Football Hall of Fame and Skyview Atlanta ferris wheel to streetcar stops and numerous popular restaurants. And now it wants to say "Howdy, neighbor" to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

With the stunning new home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United within easy walking distance, the Centennial Park District is hosting a "Football Fun Day" on Saturday, August 26.

That’s opening day at the stadium, as the hometown hero Falcons take on the Arizona Cardinals in a pre-season game at 7 p.m. But things kick off long before that downtown, highlighted by a free festival outside the College Football Hall of Fame.

Running from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Football Fest 2017 will get you in the mood with music from local marching bands, mascot photos, interactive booths and more.

Want to watch all the pregame goings on or chew things over after the final whistle blows? You can check out the district's web site for a complete listing of options ranging from dozens of hotels and restaurants to sports bar STATS with its 70 high definition TV's.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com