Game Day at UGA: A Guide to the Traditions of Georgia Bulldogs Football

Game days at the University of Georgia are nothing short of electrifying. The Bulldogs boast a fiercely loyal fan base that turns UGA’s campus into a buzzing hub of excitement and energy. Every moment is filled with anticipation and pride, whether you’re joining in on a spirited tailgate or taking part in one of the team’s cherished traditions. Continue reading the guide below to discover how to make your UGA game day experience truly unforgettable.

Finding Uga

When walking around Athens, Georgia, one might be inclined to ask “Who let the dogs out?” as dozens of larger-than-life bulldog statues can be seen scattered around the streets. As a testament to the town’s UGA-bulldog loyalty, dedicated UGA fans often take part in a scavenger hunt of sorts, searching for the dogs and snapping a photo with them. With over 36 completely unique statues dispersed throughout Athens, fans can get a taste of UGA spirit and also become familiar with the town itself by seeking the dogs out. You can view a map map of bulldog statues here. If snapping a photo with a bulldog statue isn’t’ quite cutting it for you, fans also have the opportunity to take a photo with (and maybe give a couple of pets to) UGA’s living, breathing mascot himself, Uga the bulldog. An opportunity to meet and greet with Uga occurs at the “Dawg Walk,” which happens 2 hours and 15 minutes before the game. Chances of snagging a picture with Uga vary, so the Georgia Bulldog’s Facebook page recommends downloading their official app to stay in the know about all things Uga and football.

Tailgating a UGA Game

Tailgating at UGA is a staple of game days. Occurring on campus at Myers Quad and North Campus, UGA tailgates often generate an abundance of team spirit and school pride. At the height of the season, Myers Quad is full of tailgate tents, playing host to UGA students and their parents, student organizations, UGA alumni and fans alike. North Campus, on the other hand, offers a scenic area situated close to downtown Athens’ historic district, giving tailgaters access to the town’s variety of restaurants and shops. Tailgating on North Campus begins five hours before kickoff, whereas Myers Quad hosts fans as early as 7 a.m. Regardless of where fans end up tailgating, the sense of community permeates every experience.

Embrace the Bulldogs Traditions

The Dawg Walk 

The Dawg Walk takes place 2 hours and 15 minutes before every home game. Thousands of people line the main entrance to Sanford Stadium to welcome the football team’s players and coaches as they make their way to warm up before the game. The adrenaline and excitement are palpable as fans’ cheers and the tunes of the Georgia Redcoat Marching Band mingle in the air.

Calling the Dawgs

Fans call the Dawgs by chanting: “GOOOOOOOOO DAWGS, SIC ‘EM, WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF!” during kickoff, to hype up both fellow crowd members and the football players.

Between the Hedges

The iconic green hedges that encircle the field of play are nationally recognized and help identify the home of the Bulldogs. The phrase “Between the Hedges” was coined in 1929 when the hedges were planted around the field merely hours before the first game. More than 90 years later, the hedges are still growing, marking the territory of the UGA bulldogs.

Chapel Bell

The Chapel Bell, located on the beautiful Historic North Campus, was originally used as a way to indicate the beginning and ending of classes and later used as a World War II air raid signal. Since the early 1980s, however, the bell has been used to announce football victories to the entire campus. After the Dawgs win in Sanford Stadium, fans rush to the chapel to have a chance to ring the bell.

Don’t Forget Your Game Day Essentials

Don’t let your game day be ruined by forgetfulness! Make sure you have your tickets, parking passes and ID secured before arrival. Optional items to bring include official UGA gear, sunscreen and hats — especially for sunny game days. Sanford Stadium prohibits items such as artificial noisemakers, weapons, laser pointers, umbrellas, strollers and carseats, cameras with removable lenses, food and drink containers and ice bags.

The bag policy at Sanford Stadium sticks to the SEC’s 12-1-1 rule, which allows clear bags under 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or one clear 1-gallon plastic storage bag for one guest each. Exceptions are made for medically required items, non-clear clutch purses smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″ and seat cushions without arms or pockets smaller than 16″. View more details on what to bring to game days.

Keep the Party Going After the Game

The celebration doesn’t have to end after fans ring the bell at the Chapel. Head downtown to indulge in Athens’ renowned food and entertainment scene. Known as a foodie haven, Athens boasts an array of fan-favorite spots like The Grill, Mellow Mushroom and Ted’s Most Best. For craft beer enthusiasts, the Athens Beer Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore local breweries and savor their distinctive brews.

Georgia Bulldogs Game Day Schedule

Football season is in full swing in the fall, with games occurring almost every week. To catch one of the Bulldogs’ home games, view their football schedule.