REGINA – It’s a bitter-sweet celebration for roughrider fans as they joined the City of Regina in officially kicking-off the farewell season at Mosaic Stadium.
The Riders will move into a new building next year, and before they do, the city is giving fans a chance to say goodbye with a celebration the size of a football field.
“It’s been over a 100 years where we’ve actually had athletes around Regina, around Saskatchewan and around the country who have played here.”
Saturday marked the first day of the final farewell season for the old stadium.
READ MORE: City plans to say farewell to Mosaic Stadium
In addition, Mayor Michael Fougere said the city plans to retain some of the stadium’s rich history.
“The Pilsner box will be donated to other organizations around the province. Some of the seats will be used in the next stadium, or in some fashion used in another capacity,” Fougere said.
Hundreds of Rider fans flocked to Taylor Field, taking in the festivities which included a free barbecue, musical performances and also photo opportunities.
Mosaic Stadium at Taylor Field is home to four Grey Cup Championships but also many memories and why Rider fans who came out said it’s a place they will always remember.
“Probably one of my favourite memories is standing on the field with cadets, that was a lot of fun,” explained teen Terry Gallinger.
His father Rick Gallinger has been a fan since he was a child. He explained the camaraderie he has with other Riders fan is something special.
“I’m gonna miss it because it’s so much fun. Everybody in our section, we’ve been there about 10 years. We’re like a family,” Gallinger said.
However, for other organizations, it wasn’t just sports that made the stadium memorable. The Regina Multicultural Council hosted many musical performances and cultural events on the field throughout the years.
“Seeing our dance groups, our young children, keeping the customs and tradition, learning from their grandparents and parents. To be on the stadium, is lasting memory for them,” John Findura, Regina Multicultural Council Vice-President and city councilor, explained.
More farewell festivities are planned throughout the season as the city says goodbye to a stadium that many say was much more than just a home to the Roughriders.