UT to Implement Alcohol Sales at Neyland Stadium Beginning September 7

In an effort to enhance the fan experience at home football games, UT will implement alcohol sales at Neyland Stadium starting with the BYU game on Saturday, Sept 7.

During the summer, a group appointed by Chancellor Donde Plowman has been developing policies and infrastructure to support responsible alcohol sales in accordance with all applicable laws. Throughout this process, the university placed an ardent emphasis on fan experience, safety, and security.

“I appreciate everyone whose efforts have helped us develop what we believe is a comprehensive and responsible plan for alcohol sales at home football games,” UT Director of Athletics Phillip Fulmer said. “The game day experience at Neyland Stadium is historic and unrivaled, and I’m confident these new concessions options will aid our continued efforts to enhance that experience for Tennessee fans and visitors throughout the stadium.

“We remain committed to providing a safe, positive, and family-friendly atmosphere in our venues and have measures in place to assure that standard is met.”

In-stadium sales
Trained and licensed servers will sell beer throughout the stadium at concession stands and kiosks, excluding areas near the student section. Wine also will be sold in the Tennessee Terrace and East and West Clubs. Complimentary water will be available from large “Water Monster” tanks located in the concourse.

A maximum of two alcoholic beverages may be purchased per transaction, and fans are asked to be patient while waiting in line. Per Southeastern Conference policy, each alcoholic beverage must be poured into a clear cup upon purchase.

Beer sales throughout the entire stadium will conclude at the end of the third quarter, and alcohol will not be allowed to leave the stadium. Personnel at the gates will ensure that all cups containing alcohol are poured out and empty as patrons exit the venue.

ID required
Regardless of age, everyone will be required to produce a valid photo ID each time alcohol is purchased. Accepted IDs include valid driver’s licenses, military ID cards, passports, and government-issued photo ID cards.

Individuals consuming alcohol must be able to produce a valid photo ID at all times, as stadium personnel may ask to see an ID at locations away from the original point of sale. Anyone consuming alcohol must be able to prove—at any time or location—that they are age 21 or older.

Law enforcement
Law enforcement and game day staff will be trained and focused on alertness to binge drinking, underage drinking, and other potential alcohol-related incidents in all areas of the stadium.

Individuals will be ejected from the venue and are subject to prosecution if they pass off alcohol to a minor, attempt to use a fake ID, or are intoxicated.

A game day text-message system is in place for fans who request assistance due to inappropriate fan behavior or for medical or custodial issues. If such a situation arises, fans are asked to send a text to 69050, beginning with VOLS and then including their seat location and a description of the issue. They will receive a confirmation text and appropriate staff will respond.

Ride sharing and designated drivers 
On game days, a designated ride-share pickup area will be located on Circle Drive near Ayres Hall (not Circle Park).

Game attendees who visit the fan information booth at Gate 21 and register as designated drivers, pledging to refrain from alcohol consumption, will receive a wristband and a voucher for a free water or soft drink. Designated drivers can register through halftime and will be asked to provide their name, driver’s license number, email, section, row, and seat number.

Clear bag policy
Tennessee’s clear bag policy remains in effect for all athletic events. Additional game day info—such as parking and first-aid maps, permitted and prohibited items, and code of conduct—can be accessed at UTsports.com/gameday.

Source: The University of Tennessee Athletic Department