Chattanooga To Light Landmarks Blue For Playoff Match
The city will display blue lighting from October 16 to 18 to support Chattanooga FC ahead of their playoff game.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Soccer
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Chattanooga will illuminate local landmarks in blue from October 16 to October 18 to support Chattanooga FC. The team is set to host NYCFC II for the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.
Why it matters
The city is rallying behind its local professional soccer club as they head into a significant postseason matchup at Finley Stadium. This show of civic support encourages fan engagement and highlights the local team's achievement.
The first 1,000 supporters to arrive at Finley Stadium will receive a free rally towel. Gates for the playoff match open at 4:00 p.m. ET.
The players
Chattanooga FC
This is a professional soccer club based in Chattanooga that competes in the MLS NEXT Pro league.
NYCFC II
This is the reserve team of Major League Soccer side New York City FC that competes in the MLS NEXT Pro division.
The details
Landmarks participating in the blue lighting display include City Hall, the Walnut Street Bridge, Liberty Tower, The Block, and the EPB Downtown office. Fans are encouraged to wear blue clothing to the match, which kicks off at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Timeline
Buildings and landmarks will be lit in blue from October 16 to October 18, 2026.
Stadium gates open at 4:00 p.m. ET on October 18, 2026.
Chattanooga FC hosts NYCFC II at 5:00 p.m. ET on October 18, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The match occurs during the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, marking the team's advancement into the league's postseason bracket. This playoff appearance serves as a critical milestone for the franchise's standing within the professional league structure.
Fans planning to attend the match at Finley Stadium should arrive early to secure one of the 1,000 complimentary rally towels. Commuters may notice blue lighting on major city landmarks throughout the three-day window leading up to the game.
The takeaway
Civic celebrations like these aim to galvanize local support and build atmosphere ahead of high-stakes athletic events. Supporters are encouraged to prepare for the match by arriving at the gates when they open at 4:00 p.m. ET.
Further reading
For more information on the team, check out the Soccer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chattanoogan.
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