Tailgating at AT&T Stadium is a long-standing tradition that blends football with food, music, and camaraderie. The home of the Dallas Cowboys provides an expansive setting for pre-game gatherings, but it also comes with a strict set of rules that every fan should know. Whether you’re a seasoned tailgater or a first-timer, understanding what’s allowed can make or break your game day.
Where You Can Tailgate
Tailgating is permitted in specific areas around AT&T Stadium, mainly within designated spaces on the outer edges of the stadium parking lots. These include:
- Lots 4–15 (on the east and west sides of the stadium)
- Blue and Silver Lots, depending on event restrictions
Each vehicle is allocated one space for parking and the adjacent space behind it for tailgating activities. Oversized vehicles such as RVs are only allowed in designated lots with an appropriate permit.
What You Can Do
Tailgating culture is strong in Arlington, and the stadium allows plenty of room for tradition as long as it stays within guidelines.
- Grilling is allowed, but only with gas or charcoal grills. Open flames such as fire pits or deep fryers are banned.
- Tents and canopies are permitted, provided they fit within your allotted tailgating space and do not impede traffic or emergency lanes.
- Alcohol is permitted, but only for those of legal drinking age. All alcohol must be consumed within the tailgating area and not brought inside the stadium.
- Games and music are allowed but must be kept at reasonable volumes. Stadium staff may ask for music to be turned down if it’s disruptive.
- Portable generators are allowed for personal use but must be operated safely and not emit excessive noise or fumes.
What You Can’t Do
While the stadium allows a fair amount of freedom, there are clear limitations meant to keep fans safe and traffic moving.
- Saving spots is not allowed. Vehicles must enter together if they want to tailgate side by side.
- Selling food or merchandise is prohibited without prior approval or licensing from stadium management.
- Glass containers are banned entirely from parking areas.
- Tailgating after kickoff is discouraged. Parking lot activities are expected to taper off once the game begins.
- Disorderly conduct, public intoxication, or harassment of other fans will result in removal from the premises and possible arrest.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive early. Parking lots open five hours before kickoff for Cowboys games, and prime spots go quickly.
- Clean up. Every group is responsible for leaving their space clean. Bring bin bags, extinguish all flames, and take everything with you.
- Follow instructions from stadium staff. They have final say over what’s safe and allowed on game day.
TFC Stadiums Takeaway
AT&T Stadium delivers one of the best tailgating scenes in the NFL, but it’s not a free-for-all. Understanding the rules ensures that you don’t ruin your own experience or someone else’s. With a bit of preparation and consideration, you can enjoy a classic Texas tailgate without a hitch.
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