Yes, you absolutely can tailgate at MetLife Stadium! It's a cherished tradition for many fans attending events there, especially NFL games. However, like any major venue, there are rules and guidelines you need to follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Let's dive into everything you need to know to plan the ultimate MetLife Stadium tailgate!
Step 1: Get Pumped and Plan Your Crew!
So, you're ready to embrace the spirit of tailgating at MetLife? Fantastic! The first step isn't about packing coolers or firing up grills; it's about getting your group together and setting the vibe.
Who's In Your Tailgate Squad?
The More, The Merrier: Tailgating is a communal activity. The more friends, family, or fellow fans you bring, the better! Coordinate early to figure out who's coming.
Designate Roles: Is there a grill master among you? A supreme snack provider? A beverage wizard? Assigning roles can make the prep and day-of execution much smoother.
Set Expectations: Discuss what kind of tailgate you envision. Is it a gourmet feast or a casual BBQ? Knowing this helps with budgeting and packing.
Step 2: Master the MetLife Parking & Space Rules
Understanding the parking situation and how to claim your tailgating territory is crucial. MetLife Stadium has specific policies to ensure everyone has space and safety is maintained.
Parking Lot Logistics
Pre-Paid Parking for NFL Games: For NFL games (Jets and Giants), parking is typically pre-paid. Make sure you have your parking permit secured well in advance. For non-NFL events, parking is often available on a first-come, first-served basis and payable upon arrival.
Arrive Early, Arrive Together: The parking lots generally open 5 hours prior to the start of an event. Arriving early is key to getting a good spot, especially if you want to tailgate. Groups wanting to tailgate together should plan to meet beforehand and arrive at the stadium simultaneously, as saving spaces is not permitted.
"One Car = One Space" Rule: This is paramount. Your tailgating setup (tables, chairs, coolers, grills, etc.) must be confined to the lined parking space directly in front of or behind your vehicle. You cannot occupy additional lined parking spaces, even if you have extra pre-paid permits for them. Blocking drive lanes is strictly prohibited.
Oversized Vehicles: Trucks, trailers, and other oversized vehicles (excluding buses) will be directed to park along the curbs in the parking lots to avoid taking up multiple lined spaces. These vehicles are not permitted in the enclosed structured parking decks.
Accessible Parking: Available in Lots E, F, and G for those with valid ADA license plates or hang tags. The individual with the disability must be in the vehicle, and registrations/IDs will be checked.
Tailgating Area Etiquette
Permitted Areas: Except where otherwise designated (e.g., parking decks), tailgating is permitted in all MetLife Sports Complex parking lots.
Medians: Tailgating is also allowed on the medians that separate the parking lots from the roadways.
Keep Clear: Drive aisles and fire lanes must remain clear at all times for emergency vehicle access.
Step 3: Gear Up for a Great Tailgate!
Now for the fun part: packing! Knowing what you can and cannot bring will save you a lot of hassle at the gates.
Allowed Items for Tailgating
Grills: Propane and charcoal grills are generally permitted for tailgating, but they must be used at a safe distance from vehicles and buildings. Open fires, deep fryers, and oil-based cooking are prohibited.
Food and Beverages:
Food can be brought in, preferably contained in clear plastic bags if you plan to bring it into the stadium later (though check stadium entry policies for this).
Alcohol is permitted for tailgating in the parking lots, but cannot be brought into the stadium. Consume alcohol responsibly. Guests showing visible signs of impairment will not be allowed to enter the stadium.
Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks (20 oz or less) are allowed. Reusable water bottles are also permitted but must be empty upon entry to the stadium.
Coolers, Tables, Chairs: Bring your tailgating essentials! Just remember they must fit within your designated parking space.
Tents/Canopies: Tents or canopies are allowed, but they must not exceed an 8' x 8' footprint.
Sound Systems: Permitted, but sound must not exceed 65 decibels (New Jersey State Ordinance) and should be directed towards your vehicle, not other guests. Be considerate of your neighbors!
Prohibited Items for Tailgating (and inside the stadium)
Open Fires: This includes fire pits and anything beyond a contained grill.
Deep Fryers / Oil-Based Cooking: These are explicitly prohibited due to safety concerns.
Drones, Model Aircraft, Kites: Any remote-controlled or tethered flying objects are not allowed on the Sports Complex.
Commercial Tailgating: Selling access to a tailgate party or engaging in unauthorized commercial activities on the premises is strictly prohibited.
Glass Bottles (inside stadium): While you might use them for tailgating, glass bottles are generally not allowed inside the stadium itself.
Coolers of Any Kind (inside stadium): Large coolers, thermoses, or ice chests are not permitted inside MetLife Stadium.
Weapons, Laser Pointers, Balls of Any Kind (including full-sized footballs), Umbrellas, Strollers: These are typically prohibited inside the stadium.
Step 4: Safety First!
A fun tailgate is a safe tailgate. Being prepared for potential issues can prevent mishaps and ensure everyone has a good time.
Fire Safety
Fire Extinguisher: It is highly recommended that you have a minimum Class 2A-10B:C fire extinguisher readily available for use if necessary, especially if you're grilling.
Grill Placement: Position grills at a safe distance from your vehicle, other vehicles, and any buildings.
Hot Coal Disposal: Dispose of hot coals only in designated hot coal containers located around the perimeter of the parking lots. Do not discard them in open parking spaces, under vehicles, or in regular trash bins.
Waste Management
Leave No Trace: Be a responsible tailgater! Bring trash bags and ensure all your waste is collected and properly disposed of in designated trash receptacles before you leave. Stadium tailgate patrol will be monitoring for compliance.
Step 5: Enjoy the Game Day Atmosphere!
After all the planning and setup, it's time to soak in the pre-game atmosphere!
Beyond Your Spot
Explore the Plazas: For those who choose not to set up their own tailgate or arrive via public transport, MetLife Stadium often has special pre-game activity zones within the plazas adjacent to the stadium. These areas offer a variety of food, games, entertainment, and activities for all ages.
Connect with Fellow Fans: Tailgating is all about camaraderie. Mingle with other fans, share stories, and soak in the excitement of game day!
Remember, these guidelines are in place to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for everyone. By following them, you're not just a good tailgater, you're contributing to the incredible game day experience at MetLife Stadium!
FAQs About Tailgating at MetLife Stadium
How to secure parking for tailgating at MetLife Stadium?
For NFL games, pre-paid parking permits are required and should be secured in advance. For other events, parking is usually first-come, first-served and paid upon arrival. Always check the specific event page or "Know Before You Go" document for precise details.
How to know when MetLife Stadium parking lots open for tailgating?
Parking lots typically open 5 hours prior to the start of an event. This timing can vary, so always confirm on the MetLife Stadium website's event page or "Know Before You Go" guide.
How to ensure I have enough space for my tailgate setup?
Adhere strictly to the "One Car = One Space" policy. All your tailgating equipment (grill, chairs, tables, cooler) must fit within the lined parking space of your vehicle. Do not occupy adjacent spaces.
How to dispose of hot coals safely after grilling?
Utilize the designated hot coal containers found around the perimeter of the parking lots. Never dispose of hot coals in regular trash bins or on the ground.
How to bring alcohol for tailgating?
You can bring your own alcohol for consumption in the parking lots only. Alcohol is strictly prohibited inside the stadium. Drink responsibly, as visible impairment may lead to denied entry.
How to set up a tent or canopy?
Tents and canopies are allowed, but they must not exceed an 8' x 8' footprint and must remain within your designated parking space.
How to play music at my tailgate without issues?
Sound systems are permitted, but keep the volume at or below 65 decibels (NJ State Ordinance) and direct the sound towards your vehicle to avoid disturbing other tailgaters.
How to bring food into MetLife Stadium from my tailgate?
Food is allowed inside the stadium if it's contained in a clear plastic bag. However, stadium rules regarding food items can change, so it's best to check the latest guest policies before your visit.
How to ensure my group can tailgate together?
Arrive together! MetLife Stadium does not permit saving parking spaces, so for a group tailgate, coordinate your arrival so you can park next to each other if spots are available.
How to find designated tailgating areas at MetLife Stadium?
Tailgating is generally permitted in all MetLife Sports Complex parking lots, unless otherwise specified. You'll be directed to appropriate parking upon arrival based on your permit or the event's parking plan.
