New to the South? You’ve probably noticed college football is kind of a big deal around here! You’ve also probably seen or heard people talk about the great football tradition of tailgating before or during games. Tailgating used to mean just hanging around a pickup truck, but it has grown and evolved into something much more exciting.
It’s often joked about that everyone in Alabama, whether you’re born-and-raised or a newcomer, has to officially declare their allegiance to the Tide or Tigers. Each school and its fans have their own tailgating style, so here’s your guide to tailgating and having a great time!
The University of Alabama Crimson Tide
Colors: Crimson and White
Mascot: Big Al the Elephant
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
“The Quad” is tailgating central at UA. You can usually find three or four generations of family plus numerous student organizations cooking up Alabama BBQ, preparing their tailgating feasts to the ringing of Denny Chimes. You’re likely to see fans watching the game on multiple big-screen TVs since the stadium is usually so packed–sometimes with up to 100,000 fans! Catch the Walk of Champions two hours before the game to see the Tide roll up to Bryant-Denny Stadium, and get fired up with Big Al and the Million Dollar Band at the Elephant Stomp pep rally on the steps of Gorgas Library an hour before kickoff. Crimson Tide fans are known for their kindness and true Southern hospitality. Just make sure to cheer, “Roll Tide!” and you’ll fit right in.
Auburn University Tigers
Colors: Orange and Blue
Mascot: Aubie the Tiger
Location: Auburn, AL
If you’re in the “loveliest village on the plains” on a Friday night before a home game, you’ll probably see dozens of RVs and campers from all over the Southeast setting up for tailgating. You’re also likely to see students and fans marking off their chosen spot with tape. Why do people arrive so early to tailgate in Auburn? It’s simple: the Tiger Walk! Two hours before the game, players are led through a crowd of roaring fans to Jordan-Hare Stadium (pronounced JER-dan) by Auburn’s pep band, cheerleaders, and their beloved mascot Aubie. After a victory, follow the crowd to Toomer’s Corner to TP the trees in celebration. Don’t be surprised if fellow fans invite you to their own tailgating spot for snacks or a sit in the shade. Make sure to greet them with a “War Eagle!”
The rivalry between these two teams comes to a head at the Iron Bowl when the Tide and Tigers face off in their annual bout. Each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, tailgaters go all out to support their team. Every aspect of tailgating is turned up to a hundred on the home team’s turf, and the stadium is packed (good luck finding cheap tickets!). Even if you’re not at the game, there’s always a watch party somewhere!
Whether you’re in someone’s living room or in the thick of it at the stadium, tailgating is a place for friends and family. Even if you have no real interest in college football, tailgating is a Southern tradition that everyone should experience at least once!
Tide and Tigers 2022 Schedule
Home / Away
Crimson Tide
Sept. 3: Utah State
Sept. 10: Texas
Sept. 17: Louisiana-Monroe
Sept. 24: Vanderbilt
Oct. 1: Arkansas
Oct. 8: Texas A&M
Oct. 15: Tennessee
Nov. 5: LSU
Nov. 12: Ole Miss
Nov. 19: Austin Peay
Nov. 26: Auburn
Auburn Tigers
Sept. 3: Mercer
Sept. 10: San Jose State
Sept. 17: Penn State
Sept. 24: Missouri
Oct. 1: LSU
Oct. 8: Georgia
Oct. 15: Ole Miss
Oct. 29: Arkansas
Nov. 5: Mississippi State
Nov. 12: Texas A&M
Nov. 19: Western Kentucky
Nov. 26: Alabama