Tens of thousands of people have arrived at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix to pay tribute to the assassinated activist Charlie Kirk. Specifically, over 63,000 people are currently at the Arizona Cardinals stadium, after hours of waiting to pass through strict security checks, to say their final goodbye to Charlie Kirk. Security measures are extremely tight, as the ceremony will be attended by American President Donald Trump and top government officials, including American Vice President J.D. Vance as well as Erica Kirk, who now leads Charlie Kirk’s organization, Turning Point.
Elon Musk was spotted in the crowd during the memorial ceremony. Specifically, he was seen shaking hands with Matt Gaetz and greeting the crowd. The national anthem was heard in the stadium while prayers were offered. Charlie Kirk’s pastor, Rob McCoy, spoke, followed by Republican Party donor Rebecca Dan.
Donald Trump: In Arizona for Kirk’s memorial ceremony
American President Donald Trump landed in Arizona before his speech at Charlie Kirk’s memorial ceremony. Air Force One touched down at Luke Air Force Base, located near State Farm Stadium, where the event will take place. It’s worth noting that never before has a sitting U.S. President and Vice President both spoken at a memorial service for a non-elected American citizen.
Charlie Kirk: Record attendance at memorial ceremony
The iconic Arizona Cardinals stadium has already reached capacity limits. Event organizers installed 60,000 additional seats, increasing total capacity to 73,000 people. Meanwhile, thousands of citizens have gathered in outdoor areas, while millions of viewers are expected to watch the broadcast. To better serve the public, authorities opened the neighboring sports center, which can accommodate an additional 20,000 attendees. Lines extend hundreds of meters from main entrances, even reaching beyond parking areas.
Symbolism and messages in Kirk’s memory
Every seat at State Farm Stadium has been decorated with a poster of the deceased activist, bearing the slogan “never surrender.” Additionally, all attendees receive commemorative bracelets with the phrase “we are all Charlie Kirk.” The atmosphere inside the stadium reflects strong religious elements, with banners displaying Scripture passages. This choice reflects Charlie Kirk’s deep Christian faith, which he often invoked in his public appearances. Many attendees wear red, white and blue clothing, cowboy boots and “MAGA” hats, as the announced dress code was “Sunday best – red, white or blue.”
Ceremony program and official speakers
Emergency security measures and organization at State Farm Stadium
The Department of Homeland Security has transformed State Farm Stadium into a virtual fortress. Security measures are characterized as draconian, taking into account the intense political polarization prevailing in the country. The security plan was drafted in record time, just ten days after Kirk’s assassination on September 10. Federal, state authorities and secret services are working closely together, facing one of the biggest security challenges in recent years. The stadium gates opened early in the morning, with supporters entering in an orderly fashion after extensive checks. Charlie Kirk’s funeral is expected to mark a new era for the political movement he represented.
