Let’s chat about Longhorn football season and how to hook ‘em for newbies!
For help on this subject, we turned to local expert, Erica Brennes. You may know Erica on social media or through her blog, Real Mom Real Tired, or you might recognize her as the morning traffic anchor on KXAN. She’s a native Austinite and mom who is always out doing fun things with her family. Erica is not only a UT fan, but she also has personal connections to Longhorn football, as her husband, Ricky, is the Executive Director of the Silver Spur Alumni Association, which includes the handlers and caretakers of BEVO.
What to Know Before You Go to a Longhorns Game:
– Where do I get tickets for a UT football game?
Start on texassports.com where you can find tickets starting as low as $45. You will also always find people on game day selling tickets outside the stadium, or you can find tickets on StubHub.
– Are kids welcome to attend the games?
Absolutely! I started taking my daughter at nine months old. Children under two get in for free, so I wore her for several seasons and let her sit on my lap. I do recommend bringing headphones for your little ones who may be sensitive to sound. BEVO Blvd starts usually about five hours before the game, and that includes live music, games, rides, food, and drinks. Plus there’s a parade 3 ½ hours before kick-off that includes cheerleaders, the Longhorn band, and BEVO!
– Are there areas of the stadium that are more family-friendly?
If you can manage a seat on the west side of the stadium, you’ll be in the shade once the sun sets. But wherever you sit, bring a hat, sunscreen, and some sunglasses. I also recommend bringing some sort of hand-held fan.
– How early should families plan to arrive? Are there pre-show activities that are fun for kids?
BEVO Blvd and Longhorn City Limits is a blast for the whole family. Even if you don’t have tickets, just going down there and enjoying the festivities is worth it – they have games and a few kids’ rides. You can find friends at a tailgate, or take advantage of the game day pre-party the school puts on. Check out the Game Day Guide for the full schedule of events.
– Is parking tricky? Will the kids need to do a lot of walking to get to the stadium?
We typically park in one of the public parking state garages around 15th & Trinity/San Jacinto. I’ve then taken a pedi cab as close as they let them go to the stadium when my daughter was younger. Now she’s old enough to walk but is known to hitch a piggyback ride by the end of the day. You could also take advantage of what CapMetro has to offer or take an Uber.
– Are there any great concessions that you’d recommend?
They have Amy’s Ice Cream, burgers, BBQ, and all the stadium food you can crave.
Have any suggestions on items to bring for kids?
Sunscreen, a hat, headphones, binoculars, pom poms, a stuffed BEVO!
Have any recommendations on where to shop for cute kid’s merch?
There’s a shop at the stadium or a pregame trip to the CO-OP is always fun.
– Any other tips or notes you’d give to someone interested in going for the first time?
Just go for it! It’s a great time. Get there for Longhorn City Limits and make a day of it!
– If a family can’t get (or afford) tickets to a football game, are there other UT sports that you’d recommend?
Texas Volleyball is so fun and tickets are less than $20! (Note, you can find out about all of the UT sports at texassports.com)
More info: Keep in mind that the stadium does have a clear bag policy, and it’s a great idea to read through the Football Fan Guide before you head out so you’ve got the scoop on parking and the full schedule of events. For ALL the details to get you ready for game day, visit texassports.com.
