Football Tailgates

Tailgate with us!

Harding University tailgate events are held before every home football game at First Security Stadium. Whether the game is in the afternoon or evening, come out to support the home team and participate in all of the tailgate activities.

Bison Park, located in front of the Ganus Activities Complex (GAC), is the place to be before kickoff! University offices and departments, social clubs, alumni, families and Bison fans are invited to set up a tailgate, fire up the grill and enjoy time together before heading into First Security Stadium. Bring your black and gold, your favorite game-day food and plenty of Bison spirit!

Want to Tailgate? GO BISONS!

Check out the tailgating map below to find Bison Park, parking areas and other game-day locations.

• Tailgating spots are first come, first served. 
• Set-up may begin no more than 48 hours before game time.
• No parking on the grass. You may drive onto the grass to unload, but please move your vehicle to a designated parking area afterward.
• Bring your own tables and chairs when possible. Harding has a limited number available, with students and campus departments receiving first availability. If additional tables and chairs are available, please limit your group to two tables and four chairs.
• At the end of the tailgate, fold Harding tables and chairs and return them to the designated area against the trees.
• Tents, tables, chairs and grills are welcome. Please keep sidewalks, roadways and emergency access clear.
• Bring your favorite tailgate food and drinks. Alcohol, tobacco and vaping are not permitted on Harding property.
• Please keep tailgating family-friendly and place all trash in the provided trash cans.
• Have fun, enjoy time with your fellow Bison fans and then head to First Security Stadium to cheer on the Bisons!

Parking & Restrooms

Parking is available on all four sides of the Ganus Activities Complex. Please remember that vehicles may not be parked on the grass in Bison Park.

Restrooms are available inside the GAC before the game. Once inside First Security Stadium, fans may use the stadium restrooms.

The GAC is located at the corner of Park Street and Burks Boulevard, with First Security Stadium directly to the east.

Tailgate Schedule

For a set up map and a more detailed schedule for special events, see below.

2 p.m. Football Game

8 a.m. — Tailgate Area Opens: No reservations necessary, First come, First served (See map below)
10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Restrooms available in the GAC
11:40 a.m. — Walk of Brothers with the Harding University Drumline
1:25 p.m. — Thundering Herd Marching Band Tailgate Performance
2 p.m. — Game Kickoff at First Security Stadium

3 p.m. Football Game

8 a.m. — Tailgate Area Opens: No reservations necessary, First come, First served (See map below)
10 a.m.-3 p.m. — Restrooms available in the GAC
12:40 p.m. — Walk of Brothers with the Harding University Drumline
2:25 p.m. — Thundering Herd Marching Band Tailgate Performance
3 p.m. — Game Kickoff at First Security Stadium

6 p.m. Football Game

8 a.m. — Tailgate Area Opens: No reservations necessary, First come, First served (See map below)
12 p.m.-6 p.m. — Restrooms available in the GAC
3:40 p.m. — Walk of Brothers with the Harding University Drumline
5:25 p.m. — Thundering Herd Marching Band Tailgate Performance
6 p.m. — Game Kickoff at First Security Stadium

7 p.m. Football Game

8 a.m. — Tailgate Area Opens: No reservations necessary, First come, First served (See map below)
12 p.m.-7 p.m. — Restrooms available in the GAC
4:40 p.m. — Walk of Brothers with the Harding University Drumline
6:25 p.m. — Thundering Herd Marching Band Tailgate Performance
7 p.m. — Game Kickoff at First Security Stadium