Tight Ends & Friends: How Sports Illustrated and Tight End U are kicking off Big Game Weekend

When the Big Game comes to San Francisco, the weekend becomes more than football. It becomes a city-wide celebration of culture, community, and moments that live beyond the final whistle.

This year, Sports Illustrated and Tight End University (TEU) are setting that tone early.

On Thursday, February 5, the two iconic brands will kick off Big Game Weekend with Tight Ends & Friends presented by Cash App and Visa. This open-to-the-public celebration brings TEU’s signature locker-room culture to one of San Francisco’s most anticipated nights of the year. The event takes place at Public Works, putting fans, athletes, and the city itself at the center of the action.

From the tight end room to the heart of San Francisco

Tight End University was founded on connection—created by George Kittle, Travis Kelce, and Greg Olsen as a way for tight ends to learn from one another, build community, and give back. Over time, that spirit has grown far beyond the field.

Tight Ends & Friends is the San Francisco expression of that idea.

Hosted in the city’s SoMa district at Public Works, the event transforms the venue into a collegiate-style party with elevated production. Turf-inspired buildouts, interactive games, and immersive brand activations set the scene, while a carefully curated soundtrack carries the night forward.

The evening will culminate with a headline performance by Loud Luxury, with Frank Walker opening. He’ll blend national talent with the kind of high-energy atmosphere San Francisco is known for during Big Game Weekend.

A night built for the city—and the fans

San Francisco has long been a crossroads of sports, music, and culture, and Tight Ends & Friends taps directly into that energy.

TEU events are known for drawing a dynamic mix of athletes, entertainers, and sports-world personalities, and fans can expect the same here, along with surprise appearances from TEU friends and family. The goal is simple: create a night that feels inclusive, authentic, and unmistakably tied to the city hosting the biggest weekend in sports.

Guests will enjoy all-inclusive access, featuring food giveaways and hands-on experiences throughout the venue. From laid-back recharge moments to limited-edition product showcases, every detail is designed to keep people moving, connecting, and enjoying the night—San Francisco style.

Partner activations that show up in a big way

A lineup of partners is helping bring the experience to life across the venue:

Cash App, the presenting sponsor, is offering 25% off tickets for Cash App cardholders, plus expedited entry. VISA supports a seamless guest experience throughout the night.

Verizon, the exclusive wireless partner, gives Verizon customers access to exclusive tickets through Verizon Access and expedited entry via the My Verizon app.

Zenni Optical will showcase the limited-edition Kittles x Zenni eyewear collection. Novartis will host a relaxing activation space—perfect for recharging mid-night.

Kinder’s, Smirnoff, and Maestro Dobel Tequila will anchor the food and beverage experience with dedicated stations and signature cocktails. Dockers and Champion will host on-site activations, including Champion’s display of its new NFL collection.

Together, they help turn Public Works into a full-scale kickoff for Big Game Weekend.

Tickets and event details

Tight Ends & Friends takes place Thursday, February 5, 2026, with doors opening at 9:00 p.m. at Public Works in San Francisco.

Tickets are on sale now, including a limited Early Bird release priced at $85—a nod to San Francisco 49ers star tight end and TEU founder George Kittle—available in limited quantities.

General Admission tickets can be purchased here, with additional talent announcements and details coming soon.

Setting the tone for Big Game Weekend in San Francisco

For a city hosting the biggest moment on the sports calendar, Tight Ends & Friends is about more than one night out.

It’s about bringing together fans, athletes, and the local community in a way that feels authentic to San Francisco—creative, energetic, and people-first. With Sports Illustrated’s legacy of cultural storytelling and TEU’s community-driven ethos, the weekend officially starts Thursday night.