Apple Cup
2027

The History Behind College Football’s Original Northwest Rivalry

The Apple Cup dates back to 1900, when the first meeting between the two schools ended in a 5–5 tie. The game has been played continuously since 1945 (with the exception of a 2020 cancellation due to COVID-19) and has produced some of college football’s most dramatic moments. The name “Apple Cup” comes from the Washington Apple Commission, which donated the Big Apple Trophy in 1963, a nod to Washington State’s status as the nation’s leading apple-producing state. The apple was recognized as the official state fruit during Washington’s centennial celebration in 1989.

Historically, the series alternated between Seattle and Pullman each year. Starting in 2024, Seattle hosts in even-numbered years and Pullman hosts in odd-numbered years (with the 2027 game falling on Pullman’s hosting cycle). The trophy has traditionally been presented by the state’s governor, adding political pageantry to what is already the most culturally significant sporting event in Washington State.

Apple Cup All-Time Series Overview

• Series Record: Washington leads 76–34–6
• First Game: 1900 (ended 5–5 tie)
• Played Continuously Since: 1945
• Trophy: Apple Cup Trophy (Big Apple Trophy, awarded since 1963)
• Overtime Games: 4 total (UW won in 1996 and 2002; WSU won in 2008 and 2012)
• Conference Alignment: Washington (Big Ten) vs. Washington State (Pac-12)
• 2027 Venue: Gesa Field at Martin Stadium, Pullman, WA

What to Know About Conference Realignment and the Apple Cup

The landscape of the Apple Cup has shifted dramatically with conference realignment. Washington joined the Big Ten Conference in 2024, while Washington State remained in the Pac-12 Conference as it rebuilds with new members. This means the Apple Cup is now a non-conference game for the first time in over 60 years. The 2024 edition was played at neutral-site Lumen Field in Seattle, while the 2025 and subsequent games returned to the traditional home-and-home format at campus stadiums.

The significance of this shift cannot be overstated. Both university presidents recognized the importance of preserving the rivalry, and a multi-year agreement ensures the Apple Cup continues through at least 2028. For fans on both sides, the game remains the most important date on the calendar, regardless of conference affiliation. Follow official updates from Washington Athletics and Washington State Athletics.

How to Buy Apple Cup 2027 Tickets

1. Check Available Listings: Browse the event listings on this page for Apple Cup 2027 tickets from verified resellers.
2. Select Your Seats: Compare seating locations and prices to find the perfect spot inside Martin Stadium. Lower bowl seats offer proximity to the action, while upper sections provide sweeping views of the Palouse.
3. Purchase Securely: All transactions are processed through BigStub with buyer protection and verified seller authentication. Prices are all-in with no hidden fees.
4. Plan Your Pullman Trip: Book accommodations early—Pullman is a small college town and hotels fill up fast for major games. Moscow, Idaho (8 miles east) offers additional lodging options.
5. Experience Game Day: Arrive early to soak in the tailgating atmosphere, explore campus, and take in one of college football’s most passionate rivalry environments.

Visiting Pullman for the Apple Cup

Pullman is a small city in southeastern Washington, nestled in the rolling hills of the Palouse region. The nearest major airports are Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW) and Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 80 miles north. Many fans drive in from across the Pacific Northwest, and the scenic drive through the Palouse is part of the experience. Parking on campus requires advance permits through WSU Transportation Services, though limited day-of paid parking may be available. Pullman Transit runs game-day shuttles from campus and city park-and-ride locations.

For pre- and post-game dining, Pullman’s compact downtown area and campus district offer plenty of options. Paradise Creek Brewery, Porch Light Pizza, and The Coug are local favorites that fill up fast on game days. And no trip to Pullman is complete without a stop at Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe at the WSU Creamery, home to the legendary Cougar Gold cheese.

Why Buy Apple Cup Tickets from a Trusted Resale Marketplace?

Martin Stadium’s intimate 32,952-seat capacity means that Apple Cup tickets in Pullman are some of the hardest to get in the Pac-Northwest. When the Huskies come to town, demand surges well beyond what the box office can accommodate. A trusted resale marketplace like BigStub connects you with verified sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. Every listing features transparent, all-in pricing with no surprise fees at checkout, and every purchase is backed by buyer protection. BigStub has been in the ticket business for over 20 years and is the highest-rated ticket seller on Trustpilot.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Apple Cup 2027

When is the Apple Cup 2027?

The 2027 Apple Cup is scheduled for Saturday, September 18, 2027, at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Washington. The kickoff time has not yet been announced and will be confirmed closer to the season.

Where is the 2027 Apple Cup being played?

The 2027 Apple Cup will be played at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium on the Washington State University campus in Pullman, Washington. The stadium has a seating capacity of 32,952 and is located at 1775 NE Stadium Way, Pullman, WA 99164.

How do I get to Pullman for the Apple Cup?

The closest airport is Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport, which offers limited commercial service. Spokane International Airport, roughly 80 miles north, is the nearest major airport with more flight options. Many fans drive to Pullman from across the Pacific Northwest. The campus is accessible via US Route 195 from Spokane or State Route 270 from Moscow, Idaho.

Are there hotels near Martin Stadium in Pullman?

Pullman has several hotels, but availability is limited and rooms book up quickly for major games like the Apple Cup. Nearby Moscow, Idaho, about 8 miles east, offers additional lodging. Booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Some fans also arrange lodging in Spokane and drive to Pullman on game day.

What is the Apple Cup Trophy?

The Apple Cup Trophy, also known as the Big Apple Trophy, was donated by the Washington Apple Commission in 1963 and is presented to the winning team by the state governor after each game. It recognizes Washington as the top apple-producing state in the nation. Prior to 1963, the teams played for the Governor’s Trophy, first awarded in 1934.

Who leads the all-time Apple Cup series?

Washington leads the all-time series 76 wins to 34 for Washington State, with 6 ties. The rivalry has been played continuously since 1945, with the only modern interruption being the 2020 cancellation due to COVID-19.

Can I tailgate at Martin Stadium?

Yes, tailgating is a beloved tradition at Martin Stadium. Fans set up in designated parking lots and RV areas around the stadium hours before kickoff. On-campus lots require advance parking permits through WSU Transportation Services, and RV parking is by permit only in designated areas. Pullman Transit also offers game-day shuttle service.

What is the bag policy at Martin Stadium?

Martin Stadium and Washington State Athletics follow a clear bag policy for all games. Small clutch bags and clear bags within the specified size limits are permitted. Check the official WSU Athletics website for the most current bag policy details before heading to the game.

Is the Apple Cup still played every year after conference realignment?

Yes. Despite Washington moving to the Big Ten and Washington State remaining in the Pac-12, both universities signed an agreement in 2023 to continue playing the Apple Cup annually through at least 2028. The game alternates between Seattle (even years) and Pullman (odd years).

How can I buy Apple Cup 2027 tickets?

You can browse and purchase Apple Cup 2027 tickets right here on AppleCup2027.com. All listings come from verified sellers with all-in pricing and buyer protection through BigStub. Secure your seats early, as Martin Stadium’s limited capacity makes Apple Cup tickets in Pullman especially hard to come by.

What conferences are Washington and Washington State in now?

As of the 2024 season, Washington competes in the Big Ten Conference, while Washington State remains in the Pac-12 Conference. This makes the Apple Cup a non-conference matchup for the first time since the early 1960s, adding a unique cross-conference dimension to the rivalry.

What is the elevation of Martin Stadium?

Gesa Field at Martin Stadium sits at approximately 2,510 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest-elevation football venues in the region. The Palouse setting provides a stunning backdrop of rolling hills, and September weather in Pullman is typically mild with temperatures in the 60s to 70s.

Do Apple Cup games in Pullman sell out?

Apple Cup games in Pullman frequently sell out or come very close to capacity. The 2025 Apple Cup drew a sellout crowd of 32,952. Given Martin Stadium’s relatively small size and the intensity of the rivalry, tickets are always in high demand and buying early is recommended.

What time does the Apple Cup 2027 kick off?

The kickoff time for the 2027 Apple Cup has not yet been announced. College football kickoff times are typically confirmed by television networks several weeks before the game. Check back here for updates as the date approaches.

Where can I find the latest Apple Cup news and updates?

For the latest news on both programs, follow the official athletic department websites at GoHuskies.com for Washington and WSUCougars.com for Washington State. Both programs also maintain active social media accounts with real-time updates during the season.