Homecoming Festival and Tailgate

UPDATE for 2026 Homecoming Tailgate:

Important Updates to Homecoming Festival and Tailgate for Saturday Feb. 7

In light of the predicted extremely cold weather conditions, George Mason has implemented changes to the Alumni Tent and the Student Involvement Festival, as well as the prohibited items in the tailgate lots for Homecoming 2026.

We strongly encourage you to use good judgment and prioritize your safety given the predicted weather conditions.

Where can I tailgate?

Those with tailgate permits may still utilize their permits to tailgate in Lot L only. Vehicle load-in will be from 11 a.m. to noon and all vehicle traffic must cease by noon. Pedestrians may enter the tailgate lot at noon when vehicle traffic has ceased.

Due to the predicted wind gusts, tents, temporary structures, all grills, and open flames are prohibited. Please refer to additional rules and policies below.

Tailgate permits for vehicles are sold out for this event.

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Our campus community loves the passion and enthusiasm our students, faculty, staff, alumni and fans share for Mason!  Below are tailgate policies and guidelines to ensure all of our Patriots have a safe,  enjoyable and fun experience.

General Policies

• Vehicles, occupants, and personal effects may only occupy two parking spaces; spaces must be immediately adjacent to one another.
• Campers, recreational vehicles, trailers, party buses and box trucks are prohibited.
• The removal of barricades, warning lines, barrels, or other traffic and pedestrian control devices is strictly prohibited.
• Driving or parking vehicles on green spaces or sidewalks is prohibited.
• Vehicles, grills, chairs, and other personal effects may not block roadways, sidewalks, fire hydrants, doorways, or otherwise obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
• Professional tailgate services, sale of alcohol, or sale of merchandise is prohibited.
• Pets are permitted on a leash and must remain outside of university buildings.
• No Tents or temporary structures of any kind are permitted for the 2026 Homecoming Tailgate
  • Only tents 10 x 10 are smaller are permitted in the tailgate area. All tents must:
  • Be secured by weights or anchors
  • No cooking device or open flame is used under the tent

Alcohol & Drug Policies

• Only those attendees who are 21 and over may consume alcohol.
• Consumption is limited to within the perimeter of the tailgate lot.
• All attendees, whether entering in a vehicle or though the pedestrian entrances will have their government-issued ID checked and those 21 and over will be furnished with a wrist band. Those under the age of 21 will have their hand marked.
• Alcohol consumption during outdoor events and tailgates is regulated by the Code of Virginia section §4.1-308. Public intoxication, vandalism, obscene or harassing behavior, public indecency and violence (or threats of violence) will not be tolerated and should be reported to the nearest law enforcement official or by calling University police at (703) 993-2810.
• All containers are subject to search by security services or University Police.
• The unlawful possession, distribution, or use of drugs or controlled substances is are prohibited.
• Professional tailgate services, sale of alcohol, or sale of merchandise is prohibited.

Grill Policies

• All grills and open flame of any kind are prohibited for the 2026 Homecoming Tailgate
• Grills (propane or charcoal) may not be used under a tent, structure, or within 25 feet of a building.
• All grill ash and coals must be completely extinguished and disposed of in metal fire resistant bins before leaving a grill unattended.

Prohibited Items

• Glass containers
• kegs of any kind
• Fireworks
• Weapons
• Drones
• Gasoline powered appliances
• Fire pits
• Propane heaters
• Lasers
• Tiki torches
• Amusement Rides
• Portable generators
• Deep fryers
• Miniature motorized vehicles
• Other items deemed dangerous or unsafe by the Event Organizer

Unlawful behavior, public intoxication, underage consumption of alcohol, and behaviors that endangers the public or property are not permitted on university property. University Police are authorized to enforce university policies and may, at their discretion, restrict or prohibit access to university property. Individuals or groups who do not comply with this policy or relevant laws may be subject to removal from the tailgate area or university property. Tailgating activities may be cancelled at the discretion of university officials for reasons of public safety.