MW Tailgate Guide

The fall semester has begun and Spence Park is once again filled with people and the smell of barbeque. It’s finally football season in Aggieland, and with that comes tailgating. Planning on joining in the fun this season? Follow this guide and you’ll be just fine.

At Texas A&M, “set up day” occurs on the Friday before a game at noon. At this point, many will run across Spence Park to claim their spot for tailgating the next day. You may not stay overnight at your claimed tailgating spot, but sites do reopen at 7am on game day allowing plenty of time for tailgating before midnight when you must be cleared out.

Want to tailgate but have no idea where to start? Many organizations, such as TexAgs, have free tailgates on big game days that you can just walk up to whenever. There are also companies, for example the Tailgate Troubadours, that will completely set up a tailgate for you and your friends and family, though you will have to pay them.

Before you set out on your tailgating adventure, make sure you remember a few necessities. First and foremost, sunscreen and water. The early September sun will take no prisoners so lathering up more than once and staying hydrated is a must. For a full breakdown on your tailgate necessities, check out the Gameday Gear Guide on page 17.

If you plan on taking a bag into Kyle Field, make sure it’s a clear one and that it coincides with the new bag policy. The University has said that each bag must be one of two things: clear (like a gallon ziplock bag) or a clutch the size of a hand, which does not have to be clear. Of course, exceptions will be made for medical needs. You can still take a see-through water bottle (example: Nalgene’s are good).

And, if you’re personal tailgating, bring one of your favorite snacks to share or coordinate a whole menu with your friends and family. Start off your Aggie Football experience right with your dream tailgate.

Other Necessary-to-know Texas A&M Tailgate Rules:

Np tailgating on/in any of the university parking garages

Grassy areas within 15 feet of parking lots are reserved for fans assigned to those parking lots

Driving or parking private vehicles on any and all grassy areas and sidewalks is prohibited

Tents or canopies must be secured and may not utilize stakes that penetrate the ground more than 12 inches; in addition, tents greater than 700 square feet or tents greater than 400 square feet with sides require a university inspection in accordance with University Policy. Tents may not obstruct sidewalks, drive lanes or pedestrian walkways. Tailgating amenities including furniture, grills, generators, cables or satellite dishes may not obstruct sidewalks, drive lanes or pedestrian walkways

All grills, propane or otherwise, should be attended to at all times. Fires built on the ground and open fire pit devices are prohibited. All devices must have a cover capable of reducing flareups and ashes and so units can be moved quickly in emergency situations

Where generators are allowed, all generators must be equipped with a noise reducing device

It is unlawful to utilize university electricity for tailgating. Do not plug into any university outlet or power panel for personal use

Pets are not allowed to run at large in tailgating sites or on campus and must be leashed at all times according to local leash laws. Furthermore, animals shall not be left unattended or secured to university property. Clean up after your pets, please

Any person damaging University property will be responsible for the cost of repairs; including damages to grass from cooking grease and sprinkler damage

Texas A&M University is not responsible or liable for accidents, damage, loss or theft of materials/items/personal property left overnight

Remember to have fun and be safe Ags!