Columbus Lions to celebrate championship with parade

The 2026 American Arena League Champion Columbus Lions are bringing the
championship trophy home, and the entire Chattahoochee Valley is invited to celebrate an unforgettable season during the Championship Parade and Community Celebration on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

Following a historic 11-0 undefeated season and a thrilling 49-46 victory over the Wheeling Miners to capture the 2026 American Arena League Championship, the Columbus Lions will celebrate with a community parade beginning at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Columbus. The parade will feature the championship team, coaches, staff, ownership, community leaders, businesses, schools, youth organizations, civic groups, and fans as the city comes together to honor one of the greatest seasons in franchise history.

Championship Parade
Saturday, July 18, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Parade Route
• Begins on Front Avenue near the Bo Bartlett Center
• Travels south on Front Avenue
• Left on 9th Street
• Left on Broadway
• Crosses 10th Street
• Crosses 11th Street
• Left on 12th Street
• Left on Front Avenue
• Returns to the Bo Bartlett Center

Community members are encouraged to line the parade route wearing their Columbus Lions gear and showing their championship pride. Businesses, schools, churches, youth organizations, athletic teams, civic organizations, and community groups are also encouraged to participate in the parade as we celebrate this historic accomplishment together.

The Official Championship Celebration Party will immediately follow the parade as the celebration continues at The Tap on Broadway, beginning at 12:00 p.m.

This free community celebration gives fans the opportunity to celebrate alongside the players, coaches, ownership, and fellow supporters while enjoying music, food, drinks, championship merchandise, and an electric championship atmosphere.

Fans will also have the opportunity to:
• Meet the 2026 American Arena League Champion Columbus Lions players and coaches
• Receive player autographs
• Take photos with Leo, the Columbus Lions mascot
• Take pictures with the 2026 American Arena League Championship Trophy
• Celebrate with the team that brought the championship back to Columbus
• Create unforgettable memories with the champions

“This championship belongs to our entire community,” said General Manager Corry Black. “From opening day until the final whistle, our fans stood behind us every step of the way. This celebration is our opportunity to thank the city of Columbus for believing in us. We want everyone to come celebrate what we accomplished together because this championship belongs to all of us.”

The 2026 championship marks another historic milestone as the Columbus Lions celebrate 20 seasons of professional indoor football while capturing the American Arena League Championship with a perfect 11-0 season.