Reviewed by: Liv George
7 things you need to know before tailgating in Tuscaloosa
Reading time: 4 minutes
With all the moving parts that go into planning an Alabama football experience, it’s easy to forget some things. Whether you’re a first-timer or have been a dedicated fan for years, we’re here to remind you of these major tips for game day.
From a current Alabama student, read down below for seven must-do’s to have the best tailgating experience possible.
Tip #1: Be Weather Aware
Living in Alabama means having James Spann’s post notifications on at all times. One thing we recommend is checking a radar map before and the day of. It’s also a good idea to keep an umbrella on hand—and you may want to wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. Tailgating on the quad means guaranteed dirt.
Even on a sunny game day, you still want to be weather-aware. We recommend bringing a fan for the few summer games at the beginning of the season.
Tip #2: Get Creative with Stickers
Having fun stickers and buttons for gameday shows your Alabama pride all while being a great icebreaker. It’s a good way to connect with people.
Or if you’re feeling uninspired, stickers and buttons are also sold all around Tuscaloosa or online. Check out:
- The Trunk Tuscaloosa
- Pants Store
- Swag
Tip #3: Bring a TV To Watch The Pregame
While tailgating, having a TV is perfect for knowing what’s going on before the game. Tailgating before the game can be hectic, so knowing what’s going on inside Bryant-Denny Stadium is great.
On top of that, it’s perfect for fans without a ticket. Just being on the quad during a game day is an experience on its own!
Tip #4: Get to Know the Lingo
The culture in Tuscaloosa is different, to say the least.
The most obvious versatile game day term is Roll Tide! This can be used as a thank you, you’re welcome, hello, or goodbye. Roll Tide is a universal word for small acknowledgments for Tuscaloosa residents.
A good acronym to know is BDS, which stands for Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Tip #5: Bring Food for a Crowd
A perfect thing to prepare ahead of time is food. Whether catering something or homemade, people love to snack on things.
Even just finger foods will be a great addition to a tailgate. A few ideas for food:
- Pigs in a blanket
- Buffalo chicken dip
- Mac and cheese
- Chips and guacamole.
Catering your favorite barbecue is a great option too.
Tip #6: Plan Your Parking
Parking on game day will be tough if you don’t plan. Students with front lawns often open up for paid parking.You must arrive early because these are first come first served.
Free parking is also at the Downtown Intermodal Facility, located at 601 23rd Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.
Tip #7: Don’t Forget to Cleanup
Leaving Tuscaloosa on a gameday can be frantic. Don’t forget to throw away any leftover trash. Save anything you didn’t use for your next tailgate. Make a checklist to make sure you have gathered everything before you’ve left your tailgating spot.
Who is your favorite Alabama football player this season? Let us know @TheBamaBuzz on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
