Tailgate

General Tailgate FAQ  |  Reserved Tailgate Space FAQ | Guidelines

General Tailgate FAQ

• Can I tailgate in any Longwood parking lot?
  
  • Tailgating is allowed only within the Lancer Family Tailgate perimeter. Parking lots included within the perimeter will be provided to guests in the coming months.
• What time does the tailgate start and end?
  • The tailgating area will open at 9 a.m. for reserved-space holders to set up. The event officially begins at 10 a.m. and ends by 2 p.m. Tailgating after 2 p.m., including during the game or halftime, is not allowed.
• How do I reserve a tailgate space?
  
  • A link to reserve a tailgate space can be found in your Homecoming & Alumni Weekend registration confirmation email. If you registered for the weekend and did not receive an email, please inform the Alumni Office at (434) 395-2044.
• Can I come to the tailgate even if I don’t have a reserved tailgate space?
  
  • Absolutely! We want you to join the party. Just take the shuttle to campus or park in one of the reserved Homecoming parking lots and walk to the tailgating area. There's no cost to enter, and, if you want, you can bring in chairs, food, beverages, etc.
• Is the tailgate family-friendly?
  • Absolutely—it’s not called Lancer Family Tailgate for nothing! The spirit zone at the tailgate will have a few games and also fun ways to get the little ones (and you!) game-day ready!
• What can I expect at this tailgate?
  • This relaxed, casual event will feature nearly 100 reserved tailgate spaces, tented areas for our alumni associations and all five colleges, more than 20 student organizations, a spirit zone with swag giveaways, raffles and games, a DJ pumping tunes, and more. And, as a special highlight, our basketball teams will weave their way through the fans during the “March of Champions” midway through the event.
• Will there be food or drinks for sale?
  • Attendees should plan to bring their own food and drink (BYOB), although some organizations may be selling food items with permission.
• Do you offer any prepared food options?
  • There are local restaurants that would be happy to prepare food for you! Here are a few—simply call to order your tailgate package and schedule a time to pick it up at their location in town.
    *Fishin’ Pig (434) 223-3288 | Menu Options
    *Bojangles (434) 392-3063 | Menu Options
    *Grateful Fed (434) 394-0424 | Menu Options
    *North Street Press Club (434) 392-9444 | Menu Options
• What should I bring to the tailgate?
  • Reserved tailgate spots have enough space for a tent, table(s) and chairs—and your favorite tailgate games. Those without a reserved space can bring in chairs, food, beverages, etc.—just remember that you won't have a designated space to set up. You can join your friends or one of the university organizations hosting a tailgate spot.
• What should I wear?
  • Show that team spirit with blue and white, of course! But also dress comfortably and consider the weather conditions.
• Are there restroom facilities at the tailgate?
  
  • Yes, there will be portable restroom facilities, and there is an indoor restroom close by in Pierson Hall/Fitness Center.
• What's the expected behavior at the tailgate?
  • Please respect other tailgaters and those with reserved spaces. Disruptive, disrespectful or disorderly behavior is not allowed. Offenders may be asked to leave and could be cited.
• Can I bring pets to the tailgate?
  • No animals are allowed in designated tailgate areas, except for trained service animals for fans with disabilities.
• What about alcohol, smoking and vaping?
  • Longwood University strictly adheres to the alcohol, smoking and vaping rules set by both the university and the state of Virginia. Our campus is smoke-free, with designated areas for smoking and vaping. It's essential to know that alcohol cannot be served to anyone under 21, and providing alcohol to underage individuals may result in legal consequences and personal liability. Tailgate hosts (attendees with a reserved tailgate space) don’t require a special license to serve their friends and guests, but are responsible for any injuries or issues arising from serving alcohol, especially to minors. While you're welcome to enjoy alcoholic beverages within the tailgating area, please remember not to take them to other parts of the campus or public streets nearby. Open containers should remain within the tailgate perimeter. Drinking games and devices meant to accelerate alcohol consumption are not allowed, and kegs require expressed permission. Lastly, driving under the influence is illegal, and Virginia's DUI laws are enforced on and around the campus. So, for everyone's safety, please #celebrateresponsibly and make use of Homecoming shuttles as appropriate.
• Can I play music?
  • You can leave your speakers at home! We've got you covered. We'll have a professionally set up speaker system and a DJ on deck to keep the music going throughout the entire event.
• Will there be transportation from the tailgating area to the Joan Perry Brock Center or other parts of campus?
  • Golf carts will be running continuously throughout the weekend, including to/from the tailgate. There’s also a shuttle stop at the tailgate from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. But if you’re able, at ~1:30 p.m., we’ll gather to parade our way (on foot) down to the new Joan Perry Brock Center for the game. It’s very close, ~0.2 miles.
• Will food or beverages from the tailgate be allowed in the Joan Perry Brock Center for the game?
  • Outside food and beverage is not allowed in the Joan Perry Brock Center. However, there are two concession stands in the Joan Perry Brock Center serving food and beverage items including Pepsi products, hotdogs, nachos, popcorn, chips, beer, and wine.

Reserved Tailgate Space FAQs

• Where will my reserved tailgate space(s) be located?
  • Reserved tailgate spaces will be pre-assigned within the tailgate area. If you want to tailgate near another party’s reservation, please notify the Alumni Office at (434) 395-2044 in advance.
• Do I need to bring anything to show I have a reserved tailgate space?
  • Attendees with reserved tailgate space(s) should plan to bring their confirmation (printed or on their mobile device) in case event staff need to see it upon arrival.
• Can I bring RVs or large trucks?
  • RVs and similar large vehicles are not allowed due to space restrictions. If you have a large truck, please inform the Alumni Office at (434) 395-2044 in advance to make suitable accommodations.
• What should I bring?
  • Tailgate setups range from a cooler and a couple of chairs to more extensive setups with a tent, tables, grill, etc. You will be given space next to your vehicle for your tailgate setup. Here are some items to consider:
    *Canopy or tent
    *Folding chairs
    *Folding table(s)
    *Cooler
    *Beverages (Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, based on your preferences. Don’t forget water!)
    *Food and snacks, condiments
    *Portable grill (propane only)
    *Plates, cups, utensils and cooking tools
    *Napkins and paper towels
    *Trash bags
    *Ice packs or ice: to keep beverages and perishables cool.
    *Portable phone charger
    *Lancer gear
    *Sunglasses
    *Games and entertainment (cornhole, frisbee, football, etc.)
    *Identification: Carry your ID, wallet, and any necessary cards.
    *Rain gear or blankets (if needed)
    *Friends and family (tailgating is more enjoyable with a group, so invite friends and family to join the fun!)
• Will there be power outlets nearby?
  • No electricity will be available, so plan appropriately especially if you’ll be cooking during the tailgate.
• Are there any rules for food and grilling?
  • Gas grills are allowed but must be elevated at least 1 foot above the parking surface to avoid damage. Charcoal grills and open pit fires need permission in advance from the Alumni Office, call (434) 395-2044. Gas grills are restricted to 10-gallon propane tanks per vehicle. Gas generators are prohibited. Ensure all flames are extinguished before attending the game.
• Are there any rules for tailgate setups?
  • Tailgate setups, such as tents, grills and seating, must not hinder vehicle safety and should stay within the parking space lines. See the full guidelines below.
• Can I leave my vehicle in my reserved space during/after the game?
  • Yes, but all vehicles in a reserved tailgate space should be moved by Sunday, November 12, at 4 p.m.
• Will my tailgate property be safe?
  • The safety and security of personal property are the owner's responsibility. Don't leave personal property unattended.
• What are the rules for tents in windy conditions?
  • Tents must be secured against wind. If wind gusts exceed 20 mph, closely monitor or take down tents. Pegs are not allowed to secure tents in parking lots.
• Can I sell something at the tailgate?
  • Items for sale are not permitted within the tailgate lot without permission from the Alumni Office.
• What's the cleanup procedure?
  • Garbage cans will be limited, so please bring your own garbage bags to contain waste in your individual area. Any items left onsite overnight will be donated or thrown away.
    
    
    

Responsible Lancer Tailgate Guidelines

Longwood University wants you to have an enjoyable experience during your visit to campus. The tailgating rules below are designed to ensure your safety and comfort.

• Tailgating Parking
  
  • Tailgating is only permissible within the perimeter of the Lancer Family Tailgate parking lot area.
  • Attendees with reserved tailgate space(s) may need to present their tailgate space confirmation to event staff (printed or on their mobile device) upon arrival.
  • Due to space restrictions, RVs and other similar larger vehicles are not allowed. If you have a large truck, please let us know so that we can accommodate you accordingly.
  • Reserved tailgate spaces will be pre-assigned within the tailgate perimeter. If you wish to tailgate next to or near another reservation, please notify the Alumni Office.
  • The designated parking lot for the tailgate event will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 9. No entry before 9 a.m. will be allowed. The event will officially begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 9.
  • The tailgate event will end by 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 9. Tailgating after 2 p.m., including during the game or halftime, is prohibited.
  • Tailgate setups, i.e. tent, grill, seating, may not prohibit the ability of vehicles to traverse safely and must be between the lines of the parking space.
  • All vehicles in a reserved tailgate space should be moved no later than Sunday, November 10, at 4 p.m.
• Respectful and Safe Environment
  
  • Persons acting in a disruptive, disrespectful or disorderly manner will be asked to leave the premises and are subject to citation.
  • For the safety of all concerned, the use of recreational items such as bicycles, skateboards, in-line skates and motorized vehicles such as recreational scooters are prohibited within designated tailgate areas.
  • No household furniture, sofas, recliners, etc., are allowed within designated tailgate areas and/or spaces.
  • The safety and security of personal property is the sole responsibility of its owner. Do not leave personal property unattended.
  • Tents must be secured against wind. If wind gusts exceed 20 mph, tents need to be closely monitored or taken down.
  • Use of pegs to secure tents in parking lots is not permissible.
  • No animals will be permitted in any designated tailgate areas and/or spaces, with the exception of trained service animals for fans with disabilities.
  • For safety purposes, all tents, chairs, etc., must be put away before heading to the basketball game in the new Joan Perry Brock Center.
  • No items for sale are permitted within the tailgate lot without permission from the Office of Alumni and Career Services.
  • Those who reserve a tailgating space (a tailgate host) should educate all group members and guests about these rules as each tailgate host is responsible for their guests.
• Food and Grilling
  
  • Gas grills are permitted in university surface lots and must be elevated at least 1 foot above the parking surface so that heat does not cause damage to the asphalt. Charcoal grills and open pit fires are prohibited without permission from the Office of Alumni and Career Services. Gas grills are restricted to 10-gallon propane tanks per vehicle.
  • Gas generators are prohibited.
  • Extinguish all flames prior to leaving your area to attend the game.
• Alcohol Consumption, Smoking and Vaping
  
  • University and Virginia state statutes and regulations on smoking, vaping, drug and alcohol consumption will be enforced.
  • University policy and state law preclude the serving of alcoholic beverages to anyone less than 21 years of age.
  • Attendees who furnish alcohol to underage students may incur criminal risks and personal civil liability exposure.
  • Those who reserve a tailgating space (a tailgate host) do not need a license to serve their invited guests who fall within the usual understanding of friends and personal visitors.
  • A tailgate host, however, may be liable to the guests and others for injuries resulting from serving alcohol, especially to a minor.
  • Longwood University is a non-smoking campus with areas designated for individuals who wish to smoke or vape to do so.
  • While allowed within the tailgating area, consumption of alcoholic beverages on any other part of the campus or on public streets that run through or are adjacent to campus is prohibited. Alcoholic beverages or any open container are not allowed to leave the fenced-in area.
  • Drinking games and the use of devices intended to accelerate the consumption of alcohol are prohibited.
  • Kegs are prohibited without permission from the Office of Alumni and Career Services.
  • Driving under the influence is illegal. The commonwealth of Virginia's drinking and driving laws will be enforced on and around campus.
• Clean Up
  
  • Garbage cans will be limited; you must bring your own garbage bags to contain garbage in your individual area.
  • Properly dispose of garbage in area bins, or, if possible, take it with you.
  • Items left onsite overnight will be donated or thrown away.