Atmosphere
Tailgating is a big deal at Syracuse, and it is best to get here around three to four hours in advance if you want to get a good spot. Also, the best place to tailgate is the West Stadium Lot, which is home to some of Syracuse’s biggest fans and largest tailgates.
Syracuse tends to have a lot of smaller tailgates since there is not a ton of parking available around the dome. This means that you’ll want to get to the game early to get a good spot. However, you’ll find plenty of food, drinks, and pre-game parties as fans here love to cheer on their Orange.
Additionally, make your way to The Quad to see The Quad March and Ernie Davis Statue before the game. There’s a lot to see and do before an Orange football game, so arrive early and take it all in.
Traditions
The Quad March
Before every game, the Syracuse band performs in the quad and lead the crowd to the Carrier Dome. If you want to catch the band before the game, make sure to be in the quad around an hour before kickoff.
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Pizza Pennants
Every season Varsity Pizza hangs a pennant on the wall for each opponent on Syracuse's schedule. After a Syracuse win, the MVP of the game turns the pennant upside down.
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Ernie Davis Statue
As fans make their way from the quad to the dome, they touch the Ernie Davis statue to bring the Orange good luck.
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Where to tailgate
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West Stadium LotA perfect place to set up a tailgate and also home to some of the larger tailgates. If you’re looking to set up a parking lot tailgate then there is no better place to do so than the West Stadium Lot. Just make sure to arrive early as space fills up quickly.
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The QuadThe quad in the center of campus provides plenty of space for tailgating. You’ll also find lots of students and be able to see The Quad March when tailgating on The Quad making it the perfect place to set up shop.
