The 2026 NRL season is set to deliver some massive moments at McDonald Jones Stadium - and Knights fans will be right at the heart of it all.
From milestone matchups to special occasions steeped in tradition, these are the games you’ll want to lock in early, rally the crew, and paint the stands red and blue.
Round 3 | Warriors
Saturday March 21, 3pm
After opening the season in Las Vegas, the Knights return to McDonald Jones Stadium for the first time in 2026 in Round 3 - and the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric.
There’s nothing like the first home game of the year: fresh jerseys, full voice, and that unmistakable buzz as the team runs out in front of a packed Hunter crowd.
The Warriors have built a fierce, fast-paced reputation, and this early-season clash against the new-look Knights will set the tone for what’s to come.
Round 5 | Raiders
Sunday, April 5, 4:05pm (Easter Sunday)
Footy and Easter go hand-in-hand, and this year’s Easter Sunday clash against Canberra will bring a festival feel to McDonald Jones Stadium.
The Raiders always bring a physical contest, but with a long weekend crowd and family fun throughout the precinct, this one’s about more than just the scoreboard.
Expect a big Hunter turnout, a few chocolate eggs in the stands, and a game that always seems to go down to the wire.
Round 8 | Panthers
Sunday, April 26, 2:00pm (ANZAC Round)
ANZAC Round is back at McDonald Jones Stadium.
For the first time since 2019, The Last Post will sound at Turton Road.
It's always one of the most powerful and emotional fixtures of the season, and it's bound to be a full-house as the Knights take on the Panthers.
Before kick-off, the stadium will fall silent to honour those who served - a moment of unity that captures what our region stands for. Then the footy begins, and the heavyweights from Penrith provide the perfect test. Passion, pride, and purpose collide in this one.
It’s a fixture every Knights fan needs to experience live.
Round 13 | Eels
Saturday, May 30, 3pm
A Saturday afternoon in Newcastle - and a familiar face in the facing his old Club.
When the Knights host the Eels in Round 13, all eyes will be on Dylan Brown, taking on his former Club for the first time in red and blue.
With a 3pm kick-off, it’s a perfect family afternoon and a chance to soak in footy under the sun at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Expect big energy, open footy, and plenty of feeling in this one.
Round 25 | Sea Eagles
Saturday, August 22, 3pm (Old Boys Day)
Old Boys Day. Two Knights teams. One massive afternoon of football.
Round 25 will see the NRL side take on Manly in what’s always one of the most passionate fixtures of the year, alongside an NRLW clash with the Tigers, all made even bigger by the annual Old Boys celebration.
It’s the day the past, present, and future of the club all come together. Emotional, loud, and unforgettable - this one’s more than just a game.
Be There for Every Moment
From season openers to club traditions, these are the games that define the year.
Play your part, join the Red and Blue Army, and make sure you’re part of it when the gates open at McDonald Jones Stadium.
