OU tailgating expanding for inaugural SEC season

NORMAN, Okla. (KFOR) – The University of Oklahoma announced on Monday that they are expanding public tailgating options before football season.

Beginning this fall, new prime locations will be available because of the move to the SEC.

“Game day in Norman has always united generations of Sooners, and as we gear up for our first football season in the SEC, we’re excited to make enhancements that will take the OU tailgating scene to the next level,” said OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. “With more fans than ever expected to join us this year, the energy and passion of the OU Family will make this season unforgettable, showcasing the unrivaled spirit of Sooner Magic as we enter this thrilling new chapter in the SEC.”

New locations opening up include Boyd Lawn, along Asp Avenue and near Oklahoma Memorial Union. There are still areas that are restricted, which are marked on the university's tailgating map.

“Our first season in the SEC will be like no other – from opponents to stadium energy to the level of play we’ll all enjoy – and we’re so excited to see how our fans meet the moment with their enthusiasm and support,” said OU Vice President and Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione. “Tailgating, of course, is a huge part of the game day experience, and these changes will continue to ready us by creating an environment for both OU and visiting team fans. We appreciate the university’s efforts to expand our tailgating locations. We know a raucous tailgating scene is a huge pride point in our new conference, and we want Norman to show the rest of the SEC what Oklahoma is all about. We’re also eager to share information on other fan amenities we have in store for this inaugural season, as we know they will elevate the game day experience even more.”

Check out the university's tailgating policies.

Set-up Times

Fans wishing to set up tailgate equipment at any of the designated areas, not including Lindsey Street, will be permitted to begin at 5 p.m. on the day immediately preceding a home football game. Space may be occupied starting at noon, but stakes may not go into the ground until 5 p.m.

Out of respect for students who reside on campus, fans setting up tailgate equipment at the Lindsey Street area will be permitted to begin at 7 a.m. on the day of a home football game. Space may be occupied beginning at 5 p.m. on the day immediately preceding the game, but stakes may not go into the ground until 7 a.m. on game day.

Other Game Day Events and Gatherings

• Walk of Champions
• Celebrations of the 100^th season of Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium
• Allstate Party at the Palace
• OU Alumni Association Boomer Bash
• Champions Tailgate
• Varsity O Tailgate
• SooneRVillage at Lloyd Noble Center
• Fall Family Weekend will be held Sept. 13-15
• Homecoming activities will be held Oct. 13-19

Game Day Traffic, Road Closures and Parking

To promote efficient traffic flow and pedestrian safety, certain roads near campus are closed or restricted on game days. Public parking on campus is limited on game days but is available in certain parking lots for $30 – cash and cards are accepted. Fans may park at Lloyd Noble Center for free and ride the game day shuttle for $5 roundtrip, per person.

Game day traffic, parking and ADA game day shuttle information is available at ou.edu/tailgating.

More information for Fans and Visitors

Kickoff for the first OU football game against the Temple Owls is set for 6 p.m. on Friday Aug. 30, at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Fans can purchase tickets at SoonerSports.com/tickets.