The winner of the season series between rivals D.C. United and the New York Red Bulls takes home the Atlantic Cup. The two teams have been playing each other since Major League Soccer started in 1996, although the trophy wasn’t awarded until 2002. The proximity of the city and frequent matchups between the clubs have helped to make the Atlantic Cup one of the fiercest rivalries in MLS. Don’t miss it when D.C. United and the New York Red Bulls meet.
Washington D.C. and Philadelphia are separated by only 120 miles, which has helped foster a strong rivalry between United and the Union. Both clubs’ fans travel well to the matchups creating an intense atmosphere whenever the two get together.
D.C. United and the USL Charleston Battery typically play for the Coffee Pot Cup during the Carolina Challenge Cup, but on occasion, the two teams will meet in the US Open Cup. The rivalry between the two started after the Battery upset D.C. United in the 1999 US Open Cup and after the game United players destroyed the dressing room including two coffee pots. Each time United and the Battery meet the winner walks away with the coffee pot, so make sure to be in attendance when DC United and the Charleston Battery square off.
D.C. United Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Tailgating at a D.C. United game is an excellent way to meet fellow fans and immerse yourself in the United supporter culture. At D.C. United games tailgating takes place in Lot 8 where you’ll find tailgates for each of the four United supporter groups. No matter which group you join you’ll learn a lot about D.C. United and what it means to be a true supporter. These fans live and die with the team, and as a result, they throw some of the best tailgate parties at any D.C. United game.
Those of you who aren’t looking to jump right in and join a supporters group will find plenty of other excellent tailgating options. You can grab some food from the food trucks and enjoy some live entertainment provided by the club. You also can set up your own tailgate party as well giving you plenty of options on how to pregame before a D.C. United game.
There is plenty of tailgating to do before a D.C. United game so arrive early and make the most out of your trip to RFK Stadium.
If you’re looking for something to do before the game, stop by the Lot 8 Pregame Tailgate. Here you’ll find live music, food trucks, beer, and more making it the perfect place to hang out before the game.
D.C. United has four major supporter groups, the Screaming Eagles, La Barra Brava, La Norte, and District Ultra, all of whom throw fantastic tailgate parties before each game. No matter what supporter group tailgate you join you’ll have an excellent time hanging out with diehard D.C. United fans.
Lot 8 Pregame TailgateIf you’re looking for something to do before the game, stop by the Lot 8 Pregame Tailgate. Here you’ll find live music, food trucks, beer, and more making it the perfect place to hang out before the game.
La Barra Brava TailgateThe passionate supporter group throws one of the best tailgate parties you’ll find anywhere in Major League Soccer. Those of you who truly love D.C. United and want to grab some good brews and food will want to stop by and spend some time with the members of La Barra Brava before the game.
Screaming Eagles TailgateIf you want to get into the full D.C. United spirit, then join the Screaming Eagles tailgate. The Screaming Eagles supporter group is made up of diehard D.C. United fans and you can join their tailgate for $15 if you’re a non-member making it an excellent opportunity to learn more about the group and D.C. United.
District Ultras TailgateBring something to share and join the District Ultras for a fun day of tailgating and MLS soccer. A District Ultras tailgate is home to everything you need for a pregame partying including a keg and plenty of food, so stop by and check it out.
D.C. United Stadium Guide
In Game
RFK Stadium offers two distinct experiences making it an excellent place to take in a soccer game no matter what kind of in-game experience you want. On the west side, or “loud side” of the stadium are the D.C. United supporter groups. The four main supporter groups are La Barra Brava, the Screaming Eagles, District Ultras, and La Norte, each of whom help provide an unforgettable atmosphere inside RFK Stadium. If you’re looking to get loud and show your support for United, then there is no better place to take in a match than the supporter sections.
However, if you’re bringing kids to the game and looking for a more family-friendly experience, then the “quiet side” is the spot for you. On the “quiet side” fans are a bit more relaxed, and you won’t have to worry about standing and cheering throughout the game.
The best thing about this setup is it allows everyone to get the experience they want while also creating a fantastic in-game experience that you won’t soon forget. Whether you prefer the “loud” or “quiet side” you’ll have an excellent time attending a D.C. United game.
The Field Level Fan Zone allows you the opportunity to play a variety of games and watch the match from the end line. It’s the perfect place to take restless kids, so stop by and check out the Field Level Fan Zone.
The D.C. United Hall of Tradition honors the best players, coaches, and club officials in D.C. United history. Check out the banners paying tribute to the likes of John Harkes, Marco Etcheverry, and Ben Olson and remember all of your favorite D.C. United players and moments.
On the west side of RFKK Stadium, you’ll find D.C. United’s esteemed supporter groups. These groups go all out to show their support for United with their tifos, chants, and undying support. If you want to witness a D.C. United game at its best, then make sure to get tickets in the supporter sections.
Keep your eye peeled for United’s mascot Talon. The bald eagle can be seen at every game and is particularly popular among kids, so don’t miss him during your visit to RFK Stadium.
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