Arts, Entertainment and Athletics
Cheer for the Huskies on the Field and on the Stage.
As Huskies, we take every opportunity to display our school spirit and support our pack. With 16 athletic teams and a vibrant arts community, there are plenty of opportunities for you to cheer for your fellow Huskies when we're on the field or on the stage.
Show Your Support for Sport
NIU's athletic teams are part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and the Mid-American Conference (MAC). Our athletic program is made up of seven men's sports (baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, tennis and wrestling) and nine women's sports (basketball, cross country, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field and volleyball).
As a student, you get free admission to all NIU Athletics home games. All you need to do is download your tickets from the NIU Athletics box office to your mobile device and show up on game day.
NIU began athletic competition in 1899 and we weren't always known as the Huskies. In the beginning we were nicknamed the Profs – no doubt a reference to our institution’s original mission as a teacher’s college. During the 1920s, we were referred to as the Cardinals due to the color of our athletic jerseys. In the 1930s, admiration for our football coach George “Chick” Evans translated into our nickname being Evansmen. The Huskie mascot and nickname we use today weren't officially chosen until 1940.
Esports
You can also cheer on our NIU Esports team at our Esports Arena and online through our Discord server. Esports provides you a way to gather, play, compete and learn from others. We offer events throughout the year to connect you with other NIU students, high school and community college students, alumni and community organizations.
Experience Live Music, Theatre and Dance Performances
As a student, you're able to attend performances hosted by our School of Music and School of Theatre and Dance for free by creating and account with the College of Visual and Performing Arts Box Office and reserving your ticket in advance.
Enjoy Art and Cultural Exhibits
NIU Art Museum
Part of the vibrant and active arts community on campus, our NIU Art Museum is a resource for the NIU campus, local community and beyond.
Our art museum, located in Altgeld Hall, presents an annual exhibition and events calendar with award-winning, original curated exhibitions and national traveling shows that deeply explore thematic topics of visual culture.
Jack Olson Gallery
Visit our Jack Olson Gallery located on the second floor of Jack Arends Hall on the east side of campus. You'll discover the creative efforts of fellow students and professional artists. We event host artist lectures and exhibitions, which are open to the public.
Pick Museum of Anthropology
The Pick Museum of Anthropology, located in the center of campus in Cole Hall, provides opportunities for students and faculty to conduct collections research, co-curate exhibitions and enrich curriculum with object-based learning. We also host special exhibitions that promote cultural awareness and solidarity in support of global social justice.
Have a Question?
Take a look at frequently asked questions about ways to stay informed about events and programs.