Tailgating at Ole Miss is one of the most exciting experiences ever. It all starts the Friday before the football game. Blue and red trash cans are sprinkled all over the Grove mark “trash can Friday”. The excitement balloons throughout the day and all through the night. Eager fans wake up Saturday morning ready to cheer on the beloved “Rebs”. If you ever want to attend an Ole Miss tailgate and / or game, here are five helpful tips and traditions to get you through the day. Read ’til the end to see the final bonus tip.
Set up Your Tents on Time
The Grove and the Circle open at 7:30 PM on Fridays before the game. At this time, visitors can start setting up their tents. You’ll want to plan to arrive as early as you can. The spots that are marked off for tailgating are first come, first serve. Additionally, tents must be 12 X 20 and cannot have stakes.
Dress to Impress
It is not unusual to see people wearing the most stunning clothes. The ladies wear adorable dresses, rompers, or even corresponding blouses and slacks. Gentlemen wear a polo with khakis or dark solid, neutral-colored pants. You may even see a few with denim on. The most crucial part of your outfit is ensuring that you’re wearing the right color. Make sure you check the football schedule to see what color you’re supposed to wear.
Book Your Hotel
If you’re not coming from out of town, or if you do not have anyone you’re staying with in Oxford, it is imperative that you book your hotel in advance. Hotels book quickly during football season, so you’ll want to make the proper reservations before it’s too late. The Graduate Hotel is a fan favorite, so if you’d like to stay there, you might want to make reservations now.
Keep Your Valuables Close
Ideally, we would live in a world where you can lay your valuables down in a public space and come back to it. Unfortunately, things are quite different, and things go missing quickly. Ladies, if you’re carrying a purse, make sure it is something you can keep up with and that’s easy for you to navigate through the campus with.
Purse / Bag Policy
Purses cannot be any larger than 12” X 6” X 12” and must be vinyl, PVC, or plastic. Ziplock bags are permitted; however the size must not exceed one gallon. Small clutches are welcome, as long as they are no larger than 4.5” X 6.5”. Approved logos must be no larger than 4.5” X 3.4” and must only be on one side of a permissible clear bag. However, if you have medically necessary items and equipment, they may be used after a proper inspection at the designated gate. Briefcases, book bags, luggage, or any bags that are not clear that are over the threshold of the size requirements are not allowed.
Bonus Tip
The final tip is to simply have fun. Attending a football game at Ole Miss is an exciting and enjoyable experience. After attending one tailgating at Ole Miss, I have no doubt that you will find yourself looking forward to the university’s next home game.
Hotty Toddy!
