True Blue Away Game Tailgates: What Club Leaders Should Know
What are True Blue Tailgates?
The Alumni Association hosts tailgate parties before every Michigan road game (both Big Ten Conference and non-conference games). These events are called True Blue Away Game Tailgates and are open to all supporters and fans of Michigan football. Alumni Association members receive a significant discount on ticket prices.
What is the format of the events?
Customer feedback and surveys told us that many alumni would prefer lower tailgate admission prices and a la carte food options, rather than higher priced tickets with an included buffet. This format allows alumni to be more flexible on game day—they can come for the entire tailgate, stop by for a bit of Michigan spirit as they explore the home team’s campus or bring the whole family to these fun, affordable events.
Top Facts Club Leaders Should Know
§ Every tailgate begins three hours prior to kickoff and concludes 30 minutes prior to kickoff.
§ Every attempt is made to secure tailgate locations as close to the stadium as possible. However, all guests should expect and plan for a moderate walk from their parking location to the tailgate, from the tailgate to the stadium, and from the stadium back to their parking location.
§ Admission for Alumni Association members and U-M students is $5, admission for nonmembers is $10. Children 5 and under are free.
§ A catered meal is not included with the cost of admission. A variety of “tailgate appropriate” food items will be available for purchase on an a la carte basis at each tailgate. Soft drinks (not including canned soda and bottled water), coffee and dry snacks, such as pretzels and popcorn, will be available to tailgate attendees for free.
§ Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase when allowed by local law and university policy.
§ Each tailgate will include a variety of Michigan-themed programming, including appearances by various U-M personnel, such as representatives of the Athletic Department and former athletes, trivia contests, games and giveaways.
§ Live television and/or recorded video (related to Michigan football) will be provided at all True Blue Tailgates (when available).
§ Due to budget constraints, the Michigan Marching Band only attends one or two away games each season and are therefore not able to perform at all True Blue Tailgates. The band (or portion thereof) will perform when it travels to a game.
§ The Michigan cheerleaders will appear at all True Blue Tailgates (schedule permitting).
Produced May 2005