What to Expect While Tailgating at Vandy

Ole Miss fans live for elaborate weekends in the Grove, but it is time take our energy to Nashville, Tennessee.

As our awesome Rebel fan base travels to Vanderbilt this weekend, fans should be ready to expect a completely different tailgating atmosphere. Vanderbilt freshman Crosslin Archdeacon gives the Road Rebs an idea of what to expect in the new territory this weekend.

While Rebel fans are accustomed to extravagant tents, complete with pottery and even chandeliers, Vandy prides itself on quite a different tailgating experience.

There is one road outside of the stadium that is lined with gold and black tents, hosting the parents and alumni in attendance. While Ole Miss parents and students typically tailgate together in the Grove, Vandy students separate their tailgating experience from the adults, spending their day on Greek Row.

College students roam around each fraternity house and socialize with friends. If you are an Ole Miss student and desire to experience this Greek affiliated tailgate, be sure to get there early. The fraternities can reach capacity quickly, especially on a thrilling SEC game day. But do not fear, if you are stranded outside of Greek Row, there is a popular tent owned by a club called “Vandy Fanatics.” This tent is located in the middle of Greek row, handing out food from local restaurants while students socialize and enjoy their day. 

Not only is the tailgating area and atmosphere different, but the attire. While the Rebels are used to seeing women in their Sunday best, the women of Vanderbilt display a more casual, comfortable look on game day. It is very common to see girls and women of all ages in a black dress and cowboy boots, rarely straying away from this attire. Vanderbilt gives off a casual, fun and welcoming time to all of its fans and opposing visitors.

If you are debating going to support the Rebels this weekend, you should debate no more. Vanderbilt is a great place to get to show off your Rebel pride. Ole Miss knows how to bring the energy and Rebel love to any town. It is said that opposing teams rarely have fans at the tailgate, so suit up this Saturday and travel to Nashville for a Vandy tailgate. 

By Abby Bailey, an intern for HottyToddy.com. She can be reached at aabailey@go.olemiss.edu.