Dierks Bentley, One Republic Perform Live in Denver Before Broncos Kickoff
DENVER (CBS4) - Civic Center Park became "Kick-off Village," as people packed the park to celebrate the start of the NFL season Thursday.
Festive fans lined up for autographs and photo ops with some of their favorite NFL Alumni.
They battled the heat to participate in some of the activities set up by the NFL, including a mock Broncos locker room, where fans suited up in football gear.
"Ninety degrees.. it's hot," said Dave Stanton, a Broncos fan. "Too hot for these things," Stanton said, tugging at his game-day jersey.
The event drew not only locals but also fans from out of state.
Panthers fans were also celebrating the day of opening game kick-off.
"The Panthers are going to get revenge," said Eli Poulson, who was visiting Denver from North Carolina to see the game.
"The Broncos got lucky last time," said Eli's dad Nels. "This time it's not going to happen."
Fans of the orange and blue, however, begged to differ.
"I think we're going to win it," said Lucas Bissell.
To honor the Super Bowl 50 defending champions, musical artists Dierks Bentley and One Republic took the stage with live performances in Civic Center Park.
Melissa Garcia has been reporting for CBS4 News since March 2014. Find her bio here, follow her on Twitter @MelissaGarciaTV, or send your story idea to mkgarcia@cbs.com.
