Game day for the Washington Commanders is more than just the action on the field; it’s an entire experience, starting with the pre-game tailgate. Immerse yourself in the camaraderie, the smell of barbecue, and the buzz of excitement as fans gather before cheering on their team. To ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable experience, the Commanders have established a tailgating policy at Northwest Stadium, located at 1600 Ring Road, Landover, Maryland 20785. This guide outlines everything you need to know about Where Do The Commanders Play when it comes to tailgating and how to make the most of your pre-game celebration while adhering to the stadium’s regulations.
Where and When is Tailgating Permitted?
Finding the perfect spot to set up your tailgate is key to a successful game day. At Northwest Stadium, the Washington Commanders welcome tailgating in most parking areas, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the stadium grounds. However, it’s important to note the designated areas where tailgating is permitted to avoid any inconvenience on game day.
Tailgating is enthusiastically encouraged in all stadium parking lots except for the Platinum Reserved Lots, H-Burgundy, and A-Black lots, which are reserved for specific personnel and staff. This generous allowance ensures ample space for fans to gather and celebrate.
To maximize your tailgating time, parking lots officially open four (4) hours prior to the scheduled start of each event. For those early bird fans eager to soak in the full game day atmosphere, the RedZone A parking lot opens even earlier, five (5) hours before kickoff. This extended time allows for plenty of pre-game festivities.
It’s crucial to remember that all tailgating activities must conclude by kickoff. As the official start time approaches, the focus shifts to the game itself. All fans are expected to wrap up their gatherings and either enter the stadium to cheer on the Commanders or depart from the parking areas. Individuals who remain in the parking areas after kickoff without a game ticket will be considered trespassers and may face legal consequences. This policy is strictly enforced to ensure security and smooth operations as the game begins.
Tailgating Rules: What Fans Need to Know
To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and organized tailgating environment for everyone, the Washington Commanders have established a clear set of rules that all fans must follow. These guidelines cover various aspects of tailgating, from parking and space usage to conduct and safety. Understanding and adhering to these rules is essential for a smooth and positive game day experience.
Compliance and Cooperation:
- Fans are required to follow all instructions, both written and verbal, provided by stadium personnel, law enforcement officers, and parking attendants. Their guidance is in place to ensure the safety and orderliness of the event.
Designated Areas and Time Limits:
- Tailgating activities must be confined to designated parking areas and must conclude by kickoff. This ensures that parking spaces become available as needed and that the focus shifts to the game as it begins.
Space and Equipment Regulations:
- Trailers, storage units, grills, and any tailgating equipment must not obstruct parking spaces, vehicle unloading zones, crosswalks, or impede the flow of traffic within the parking lots. Maintaining clear drive lanes is crucial for emergency access and overall safety.
- Fans who purchase parking spaces are responsible for the activities hosted within their designated parking area. Parking permits are intended solely for vehicles and do not grant additional space for tailgating setups or storage.
- Vehicles, including any attached accessories or open doors, must remain within the confines of a single parking space. Oversized vehicles exceeding these dimensions will need to purchase an RV pass and park in designated RV lots.
Ticket and Pass Requirements:
- Every occupant of a vehicle and every fan participating in tailgating must possess a valid ticket or parking pass for the scheduled event on that calendar day. Entry to the parking lots for tailgating is exclusively for ticket holders attending the event. Any other form of access is considered trespassing.
General Conduct and Courtesy:
- All individuals entering the parking lots for a Commanders event must adhere to the terms and conditions associated with their parking pass and game ticket, the Commanders Fan Code of Conduct, and all stadium rules and guidelines.
- Treat fellow fans with courtesy and respect. Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere is part of the game day spirit.
- Dispose of all trash properly in designated receptacles to help keep the stadium grounds clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Safety Measures:
- Extinguish all flames and grills completely before entering the stadium. Ash disposal dumpsters are conveniently located throughout the parking lots. Never place a hot grill inside or under a vehicle due to fire hazards.
- Tents, pop-up canopies, umbrellas, tarps, and portable restrooms must be taken down and stored away before entering the stadium. These items cannot be brought inside.
- Portable restrooms are provided throughout the parking lots for your convenience.
- All parking lots close two (2) hours after the conclusion of an event. Please ensure you have departed by this time.
Strict Prohibitions: Ensuring a Safe Environment
While tailgating is encouraged, certain behaviors and activities are strictly prohibited to maintain a safe, respectful, and legal environment for all fans. These prohibitions are in place to prevent disruptions, ensure the well-being of attendees, and uphold the standards of conduct expected at Washington Commanders events.
Unacceptable Behaviors:
- Exhibiting unruly, disruptive, irresponsible, or illegal behavior, including public intoxication, is strictly forbidden. Maintaining a responsible and respectful demeanor is paramount.
- Advertising, selling, promoting, or distributing any food, beverages, tickets, merchandise, or services without prior written consent from the Washington Commanders is prohibited. Unauthorized commercial activities are not permitted within the stadium grounds.
- Using foul, abusive, or offensive language or making obscene gestures is considered unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated.
- Engaging in any behavior that is harassing, demeaning, derogatory, or hostile towards other fans, stadium staff, or any individuals is strictly prohibited. Respect and inclusivity are expected from all attendees.
Obstructions and Trespassing:
- Impeding vehicle traffic, pedestrian traffic, or designated Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) pathways is not allowed. Keeping pathways clear ensures safety and accessibility for everyone.
- Remaining in the parking lot area after kickoff or the official start time of the event is prohibited and will be considered trespassing for individuals without a valid game ticket.
These rules are rigorously enforced for the safety and convenience of all fans, creating a positive game day atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Consequences of Policy Violations
The Washington Commanders are committed to ensuring a positive and safe environment for all fans. To uphold the tailgating policy and all other stadium regulations, violations will result in strict consequences.
Any fan who violates the tailgating policy or any other policies of the stadium or the team may face immediate removal from the stadium and/or parking areas by team personnel or law enforcement. This can occur without refund of tickets or parking fees. Violators may also lose ticket and/or parking privileges for future events at the stadium. In certain cases, vehicles may be towed or moved from stadium parking lots at the vehicle owner’s expense, at the sole discretion of the team or law enforcement.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the team reserves the right to take legal action against anyone who violates the tailgating policy. These measures underscore the importance of adhering to the rules and respecting the game day environment.
Team Store and Fan Code of Conduct
Enhance your game day experience by visiting the Washington Commanders Team Store, located next to the Gate A Suites Entrance/Administrative Lobby on the lower level, across from Section 102. The Team Store offers a wide array of Commanders merchandise to gear up for the game. Store hours are Monday: Closed, Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, and Sunday: Closed.
For a comprehensive understanding of expected fan behavior, please review the Commanders Fan Code of Conduct. This code outlines guidelines for respectful and responsible conduct at all Commanders events, ensuring a positive experience for everyone. In addition to the general Fan Code of Conduct, patrons in the Tunnel Club are expected to adhere to specific guidelines, including refraining from wearing opposing team gear and respecting players, staff, and referees. Cellphone and camera use is strictly prohibited near locker rooms.
Our stadium staff is dedicated to assisting fans and promptly addressing any disrespectful or rule-breaking behavior. Fans needing assistance can text “SAFE” to 703-266-6263 or call the gameday hotline at 301-276-6100.
By understanding and following these tailgating guidelines, you contribute to a fantastic game day atmosphere for yourself and fellow Washington Commanders fans. Enjoy the pre-game festivities and get ready to cheer on your team!
