Good morning, Norman.

Norman Public Schools and government offices are closed for Labor Day Monday—local parks and lakes remain open for family fun, with many expected to visit Lake Thunderbird while an indoor facility offers another option.

OU football opens the season today against Illinois State with new quarterback John Mateer, offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and transfer standouts debuting under coach Brent Venables.

Venables—who has taken on defensive duties after the previous coordinator left—will lead the Sooners as they work to improve on last season’s low offensive rankings.

Pepper Festival at Choctaw Creek Park

6-8 p.m. — Choctaw Creek Park — Free to attend — Enjoy live music, arts & crafts, delicious food, and a pepper eating contest.

Crimson Friday Concert

2-4:30 a.m. — Campus Corner — Free entry — Celebrate gameday with live music before the University of Oklahoma homegame.

Cirque du Soleil: OVO

Thu-Sun, Sep 11-14th — Paycom Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant, enchanting world of insects in this mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil performance.

Alex Bergan, Will Stucky, and Garrett Owen Live

8-11:30 p.m. — Opolis — $11.29 — Experience an evening of folk music with talented artists in the heart of Norman.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Auburn Tigers

2:30-4:30 p.m. — Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium — Cost info not provided — Watch a thrilling college football matchup between Auburn and Oklahoma.

Route 66 Balloon Festival

7 a.m. – 10 p.m. — Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch — Check for admission fees — Experience colorful hot air balloons lighting up the Arcadia sky.