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Cornell University Athletics

Tailgating at Cornell

Responsible tailgating is permitted for Cornell Athletics events in specified areas (which vary based on sport and location), which are assigned and approved on a case-by-case basis. Tailgating is at the sole discretion of Cornell Athletics and/or Cornell Police. University policy and federal law precludes the serving of alcoholic beverages to anyone under 21 years of age.

Whether you are a Big Red fan or a fan of our opponent, we want you to have an enjoyable experience during your visit to Cornell University. The parking and tailgating policies below are designed to ensure your safety and comfort. The Cornell University Athletic Department designates permissible tailgating areas/parking spaces that are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be saved. Fans that wish to park together must enter lots with their vehicles at the same time. All fans parking vehicles are subject to the parking regulations, and if fans would like to tailgate, they are also subject to the tailgating regulations. By acceptance of a pass, one agrees to abide by the requirements of the Cornell Athletics tailgating policy and Cornell University’s Policy for Events Involving Food or Alcohol.

Tailgating Guidelines for Big Red Fans

  • Tailgating is allowed only in designated areas approved by Cornell Athletics and/or Cornell Police.

  • Tailgating may begin up to three (3) hours prior to the start of the game, unless otherwise communicated. Tailgating is not permitted during the game.

  • If you plan to tailgate with other fans, please arrive together, as spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be reserved or saved.

  • Tailgating setups (chairs, tables, tents, etc.) must remain directly behind your vehicle and not obstruct other spaces or traffic flow.

  • Alcohol consumption is restricted to fans 21 and over and must remain within the designated tailgating areas. Alcohol is not permitted beyond the tailgate perimeter. Outside alcohol is not permitted with competition venues. By engaging in tailgating activities, one agrees to abide by the requirements of the Cornell Athletics tailgating policy and Cornell University’s Policy for Events Involving Food or Alcohol. 

  • Kegs, party balls, drinking games, and mass consumption of alcohol are not allowed.
     

Important Safety & Conduct Notice

To maintain a safe and welcoming environment:

  • Guests who are visibly intoxicated or under the influence will not be permitted to enter the event venue and may be asked to leave University property. Guests within the competition venue found with outside alcohol will be removed from the premises.

  • University policy and state law strictly prohibit the furnishing of alcohol to anyone under 21. This includes cases where alcohol is improperly stored, left unattended, or not securely monitored, resulting in unintentional access by minors. Violations may result in removal from the property and possible legal consequences.
     

Additional Reminders:

  • Charcoal grills are not permitted. Propane grills (max 2.5 lbs.) are allowed with an approved ABC fire extinguisher and must be operated safely away from vehicles.pp 

  • Pop-up tents must be properly secured to avoid safety hazards.

  • Please dispose of all waste and trash in the containers provided throughout the grounds. If disposal sites are not available, tailgaters must adhere to a pack-in/pack-out model.


Cornell Athletics reserves the right to restrict or revoke tailgating privileges at any time. For a full list of tailgating policies, please visit our parking & tailgating page. Our staff work hard, alongside our coaches and student-athletes, to deliver excellence on the field every time they step on it. Please join us in respecting their effort with your careful attention to these policies and to creating a positive game day environment for everyone. We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to responsible game day celebrations.

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