Twenty years after one of the most unforgettable nights in New Orleans sports history, the Saints are bringing the city back to where it all happened.
On Monday Night Football, the Caesars Superdome will come alive with the music, memories and moments that defined Sept. 25, 2006, when the Saints returned home and the Dome roared once again. Fans will celebrate alongside Saints legends, hometown music icons and Team Gleason in a special anniversary tribute honoring a night that transcended football and united an entire community.
The celebration will feature returning members of the 2006 Saints team, legendary New Orleans musicians and a tribute to Team Gleason, all set against the backdrop of Monday Night Football inside the Caesars Superdome.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early as Champions Square opens at 4:00 p.m. with expanded gameday entertainment, interactive fan experiences and special programming throughout the afternoon and evening. Additional details will be announced later this week.
Prior to kickoff, Grammy Award-winning New Orleans music icon Irma Thomas will join rising local artist River Eckert for a special performance of the National Anthem, airing live on ESPN.
At halftime, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will headline a New Orleans-sized Meta Halftime celebration featuring special guests Eric Church, Kirk Franklin, Juvenile, Cyril Neville and Ivan Neville. Produced by Jesse Collins Entertainment, the creative force behind some of the entertainment industry's most celebrated live productions, the performance will air nationally on ESPN.
The Saints will also honor Steve Gleason and Curtis Deloatch as Legends of the Game, recognizing their roles in the blocked punt touchdown that helped ignite the Saints' 23-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons and delivered one of the most iconic moments in franchise history.
Several members of the 2006 Saints team will be recognized throughout the evening, giving fans the opportunity to welcome back the players who helped author one of the most meaningful nights in New Orleans sports history.
In recognition of his enduring impact on the city and beyond, Team Gleason will serve as the beneficiary of the game's 50/50 raffle. Proceeds will support the organization's mission of helping people living with ALS through innovative technology, equipment, services and advocacy.
Twenty years later, that night remains woven into the fabric of New Orleans. From the players and the music to the iconic blocked punt and thunderous crowd, it is a moment etched in the memories of generations of Saints fans. On Monday night, the Saints will come together to celebrate that legacy and the lasting impact of one of the most unforgettable moments in franchise history.
