Pullman celebrates the start of the Cougar football season with "First Down Friday Night," starting at 5 p.m. on Olsen Street in downtown Pullman.

With Ferdinand’s ice cream and cheese samples, dinner from Porky’s Pit BBQ, a beer garden, inflatables for kids, interviews with WSU coaches and live music, this is a free, family-oriented event and all Pullman residents, students and Cougar fans are invited.

The Pullman Chamber of Commerce is partnering with WSU Athletics to put on First Down Friday Night. The purpose of this event, according to the Chamber, is to get fans excited about the first WSU football game of the season, which is Saturday at Martin Stadium against Idaho State University.

“We want to get everyone involved to help us cheer on the Cougs,” Chamber of Commerce committee member Vicki Leeper said. “It’s a big party.”

The night begins with the Cougar Club kickoff at 5 p.m. Mayor Glenn Johnson will speak at 5:15 p.m., followed by a performance by the WSU Pep Band and Cheer Squad. Spectators can listen and meet with WSU Football Head Coach Paul Wulff at 5:45 p.m. and Athletic Director Bill Moos at 6 p.m. The night will close with a performance by Members Only at 7 p.m.

Throughout the evening, free WSU promotional items will be given out, Butch will make an appearance and WSU athletes and cheerleaders will be in attendance.

This event is not only a chance to get excited for the first football game of the season. It is also a time to thank all the undefeated Cougar fans and remember to be proud to be a Coug.

Last spring, WSU created the “Undefeated Fan” campaign. It has since gained popularity and is all about Coug pride, Leeper said.

“It’s to remind us we’re Coug fans,” Leeper said. “Regardless of how they’re doing.”

The program goes from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday on Olsen Street between Grand Avenue and Kamiaken Street.

“Come on down and party with us,” Leeper said.