Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns

In the NFL, a team’s success isn’t just measured by wins on the field—it’s also shaped by the passion and support of its fanbase. For the Cleveland Browns, recognizing the vital role fans play, the organization has rolled out a series of curated fan events aimed at strengthening connections, boosting morale, and rallying the community behind the team as they push through the season. From pre-game tailgates to community service days, these events aren’t just about entertainment; they’re about fostering a sense of unity that extends beyond the stadium walls. Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns explores the diverse lineup of activities, how they cater to different fan groups, and why they’re a critical part of the Browns’ strategy to build long-term loyalty and support.

Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns begins with pre-game “Who Dey” Tailgate Festivals—kicking off game day with energy. Ahead of every home game at FirstEnergy Stadium, the Browns are transforming the surrounding plaza into a vibrant festival space designed to bring fans together hours before kickoff. The Tailgate Festivals feature live local bands playing rock and country music, food trucks serving Cleveland favorites like pierogies and Polish boys, and interactive zones where fans can test their football skills (including a mini field for passing drills and a speed booth to measure 40-yard dash times). There’s also a “Legends Corner,” where former Browns players make appearances to sign autographs and share stories from their careers. For families, a dedicated kids’ area offers face painting, balloon artists, and photo ops with the team’s mascot, Chomps. “We wanted to turn pre-game into an experience, not just a wait,” said the Browns’ fan engagement director. “The Tailgate Festival gives fans a chance to connect with each other, celebrate their love for the team, and build energy that carries into the stadium.” Early feedback has been enthusiastic, with attendance at the first two festivals topping 5,000 fans each.

A key part of the fan event lineup is community service days—rallying fans to give back together. The Browns believe that rallying behind the team means rallying behind the city of Cleveland, so they’ve organized monthly “Browns Give Back” events that pair fans with players and coaches for volunteer work. Recent events include a park cleanup in the city’s Tremont neighborhood, where over 200 fans joined defensive end Myles Garrett to pick up litter and plant trees, and a food drive at a local food bank, where quarterback Deshaun Watson helped fans sort and pack meals for families in need. The team also hosts a “Holiday Toy Drive” in December, where fans who donate new toys get a chance to meet players and receive a free Browns-themed gift. “These events let fans see that the team cares about the same community they do,” said a Browns community relations manager. “It’s not just about football—it’s about working together to make Cleveland a better place. That kind of shared purpose really rallies people behind the team.” The events have been so popular that the Browns have had to add extra slots to accommodate the high number of fan sign-ups.

Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns also includes post-game player meet-and-greets—bridging the gap between fans and the team for the Cleveland Browns. For the Cleveland Browns, keeping fans engaged after games—win or lose—is just as important as pre-game excitement. After every home game, the team hosts a “Meet the Pros” session near the stadium’s main entrance, where 3-4 players stay to sign autographs, take photos, and chat with fans. The players are chosen based on fan requests (submitted via the team’s app), ensuring that popular stars and up-and-coming contributors alike get a chance to connect with supporters. After a recent win over the Houston Texans, wide receiver Amari Cooper spent over an hour signing jerseys and talking to young fans, many of whom brought drawings they’d made of him. “Meeting the players face-to-face makes you feel like part of the team,” said a 10-year-old fan who attended the event. “It’s why I keep coming back, even when they lose.” For the Cleveland Browns, these meet-and-greets are a way to show appreciation for fan support and build personal connections that go beyond the game. They also help humanize the players, making the team feel more accessible to the community.

Another highlight of the fan event calendar is watch parties for away games—uniting fans when the team is on the road for the Cleveland Browns. When the Browns play away, the team partners with local bars and restaurants across the Cleveland area to host official watch parties, turning these venues into mini Browns stadiums. The parties feature large screens showing the game, Browns-themed decorations, and special menu items (like “Mixon’s Meatballs” named after running back Kareem Hunt). The team also sends a cheerleading squad and Chomps the mascot to lead chants and keep the energy high. For fans who can’t travel to away games, the watch parties offer a chance to share the experience with other supporters. During a recent away game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, over 300 fans packed a downtown Cleveland bar for the watch party, cheering together and celebrating a last-minute field goal win. “Watching the game with other Browns fans is way more fun than watching at home,” said a fan who attends every away watch party. “It feels like we’re right there in the stadium, supporting the team together.” For the Cleveland Browns, these watch parties keep the fanbase connected even when the team is miles away, ensuring that the “Who Dey” spirit travels with the players.

Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns also highlights interactive fan workshops—deepening engagement through learning for the Cleveland Browns. The Browns are also catering to fans who want a deeper understanding of the game with a series of “Football 101” workshops. Led by coaches and former players, these workshops cover topics like reading a playbook, understanding referee signals, and analyzing game film. The workshops are held at the team’s training facility and are open to fans of all ages and knowledge levels. During a recent workshop, former Browns linebacker D’Qwell Jackson taught fans how to identify different defensive formations, using video clips from recent games to illustrate his points. The workshops also include a hands-on component, where fans get to practice calling plays on a mini field. “We wanted to create events that appeal to diehard fans who want to know more about the strategy behind the game,” said the Browns’ fan engagement director. “These workshops let fans feel like they’re part of the team’s inner circle, which really strengthens their loyalty.” For the Cleveland Browns, the workshops are a unique way to engage fans beyond just watching games, turning casual supporters into passionate, informed advocates for the team.

Fan Events Planned to Rally Behind the Cleveland Browns wraps up with the impact of these events—building a stronger, more united fanbase. Every event the Browns plan is designed with one goal in mind: to rally fans behind the team by making them feel seen, appreciated, and connected. Whether it’s volunteering together, meeting players, or cheering on the team at a watch party, these activities create shared experiences that strengthen the bond between the Browns and their community. In a city with a rich sports history but also its share of challenges, the Browns’ fan events have become a source of pride and unity. “These events aren’t just about football—they’re about bringing people together,” said a long-time Browns season ticket holder. “They make you proud to be a Browns fan and proud to be from Cleveland.” For the Cleveland Browns, this unity is a powerful asset. A rallied fanbase creates a louder, more supportive atmosphere at home games (which can intimidate opposing teams), generates more enthusiasm for the team’s initiatives, and builds long-term loyalty that sustains the organization through both winning and losing seasons. As the Browns continue to plan and expand their fan events, they’re not just rallying support for the present—they’re building a foundation for a strong, connected fanbase that will stand behind the team for years to come.