The Indianapolis Stadium Authority plans to give the public an opportunity for a closer look at Lucas Oil Stadium as it nears an August opening.
The stadium will be opened for tours on Aug. 16. That morning, dignitaries will cut the ribbon to open the stadium.
David Frick, chairman of the Stadium Authority, said, “Starting at 10 o’clock, we’re going to throw the doors open, and the public will be invited to come in and tour various parts of the stadium. See what a suite looks like. See what a locker room looks like. See, touch the field.”
The ribbon cutting is set for 9:30 a.m. Tours will be given at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., with more added if necessary.
The event is free, but people who want to go will need a ticket. Those will be made available starting July 14 on Ticketmaster’s Web site.
Officials said as many as 20,000 people can be accommodated on each of the tours and that more will be added if needed.
On Aug. 17, a special event is planned for Colts season ticket holders to visit the stadium and find their seats.
The Colts will not play the first game in the stadium. Six high school games are scheduled for Aug. 22 and 23. Indianapolis’ first preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium is set for Aug. 24.
“I feel like for our staff, from everyone who cooks the hot dogs and sells the popcorn to the guys who run the scoreboard and anybody else involved, we’re going to be in pretty good shape to put on a good show for the Colts and their fans,” said Mike Fox, stadium manager.
The Colts regular season opener is Sunday, Sept. 13, but the biggest crowd of the opening month might be the following Saturday for a concert featuring Kenny Chesney and Leann Rimes.
