26-27 key dates confirmed

---

THE National League and FA have confirmed some key dates for the 26-27 season.

The brand new National League campaign begins on Saturday, 8th August 2026 as Paul Wotton prepares to lead Harriers into a new term following our promotion.

Below are some key dates for you to keep in your calendars:

• Fixture release day: Friday 10 July 2026
• Opening day: Saturday 8 August 2026
• FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round: Saturday 17th October 2026*
• Final day Saturday: 24 April 2027
• Promotion Finals weekend: Saturday 8 May/Sunday 9 May 2027
• Christmas fixtures: Saturday 26 December/Monday 28 December 2026*
• New Year’s fixture: Saturday 2 January 2027*

*Clubs may request to move their festive fixtures to Tuesday 29 December (7.45pm) New Year’s Day (1 January) respectively subject to mutual agreement. The FA Cup date listed above is based on last year’s entry point for Step 1 clubs and may be subject to change.

---

---