Carolina Panthers vs. Cincinnati Bengals

The Panthers’ last December home game, the Sunday before Christmas, against Cincinnati. It is the second of two AFC opponents at home this season and the last home date until Seattle visits on Jan. 3. Holiday week games draw a family heavy crowd, and it is the last chance to see the team at home in 2026.

Panthers home games take over Uptown for the afternoon. The lots along Mint Street and Morehead fill with tailgates hours ahead, the bars on South Tryon are standing room, and the Blue Line runs packed both directions. If you have never been, the pregame walk down Mint Street with the stadium at the end of it is the best part of the experience.

What to expect

• Sunday before Christmas at Bank of America Stadium
• AFC opponent, so a rare matchup
• Last home game of the calendar year

Schedule

• Morning Tailgate lots open and fill
• Kickoff See time above
• Postgame Uptown bars and the Blue Line are the fastest exits

Plan your visit

Tickets are on the Panthers’ site and Ticketmaster. Resale prices usually drop the week of the game for non division opponents.

Good to know

• The stadium is two blocks from the Blue Line. Stonewall and Carson stations are the closest stops, and the train is the fastest way out after the final whistle.
• Uptown decks fill an hour or more before kickoff. If you drive, park south of the stadium along South Tryon or in South End and walk in.
• Clear bag policy is enforced at every gate. Small clutches are fine; backpacks are not.
• Lots around the stadium open well before game time, and the tailgate scene along Mint Street and in the Morehead lots is worth arriving early for.