Atmosphere
Tailgating at California University provides a unique experience since California Memorial Stadium is in the heart of Berkeley. This dense urban area offers you plenty of places to grab a quick bite to eat or something to drink before the game. The bars and fraternities are where you’ll find most fans, particularly students on game days. If you’re looking for more traditional tailgating, you’ll have to make your way to the constellation lots where you’ll find Cal fans setting up their game day delicacies. No matter where you party before a Golden Bears football game you’ll have a great time as everyone likes to drink a few beers and get in the game day spirit with fellow fans.
Tailgate Town is the perfect pre-game destination if you’re looking to get into the Cal game day spirit. It’s named the official pregame tailgating location, and admission is free. You’ll find everything you could want here regarding pregame entertainment. Here you can wet your whistle at the beer garden, grab a bite to eat at the concessions stand, and win some cool prizes by taking part in some fun activities.
Another great Cal pregame tradition is The Pregame rally at Sproul Plaza hosted by the Cal Band, cheerleaders, dance team, and other rally committee members. Finally, you can cap off your pregame experience with the March to Victory where you’ll greet the team as they march into the stadium before the game.
Traditions
Pregame Rally at Sproul Plaza
See the Cheerleaders, Cal Band, Mic Men, Dance Team, Oski and the Rally Committee put on an excellent performance 1.5 hours before the big game starts! March with other fans and all these groups to Memorial Stadium and stop at Tailgate Town on the way!
March to Victory
On a game day about 2 hours and 20 minutes before kick-off, fans can watch the Bears walk into California Memorial Stadium and cheer them on. Get in on the fun and join the human tunnel that spirit groups and fans make for the Bears as they enter the locker room!
Bonfire Before The Big Game
Every year Golden Bears fans hold a bonfire before their team’s matchup with archrivals Stanford. Even the football team itself gets involved by bring the Stanford Axe to the bonfire when it’s in their possession. If you want to see what the Cal-Stanford rivalry is all about head out to the bonfire.
Where to tailgate
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Tailgate TownA carnival-themed event that is set up in Maxfield Field near Memorial Stadium. Here you’ll find a beer garden for adults, activities for children, like bounce houses and face painting, and concessions for everyone. Fans can even watch the KGO 810AM pregame show and take pictures with inflatable Cal players. If you’re looking for a tailgate destination that will satisfy the whole family, then Tailgate Town is the spot for you.