Things to Know Before You Go – Sat., October 18

Homecoming Game Day 2025

Gardner-Webb vs. UT Martin | Kickoff 1:30 p.m. | Spangler Stadium

Homecoming 2025 is packed with events celebrating Gardner-Webb’s 120th anniversary and the theme “120 Years of Runnin’ Strong.” Before heading to campus, here’s your one-stop guide for a smooth game day experience.

🎉 Homecoming Weekend Highlights

• Parade: Saturday at 12:00 p.m. down Stadium Drive
• Tailgate & Alumni Lunch: Big Tent Tailgate with Bo’s Battle ’QUE People’s Choice competition—your vote supports student scholarships.
• Colleges & Schools Showcase: Visit with representatives from GWU’s colleges and schools under the tent to learn more about academic programs and reconnect with faculty and staff.
• Concerts, reunions, and family events throughout the weekend.
• Full weekend schedule: Homecoming 2025 Events →
• Get directions: View Homecoming Map→

🚗 Parking & Tailgating

• Parking Lots Open: 10:00 a.m.
• Tailgating: Permitted in designated lots only. Tailgating must follow University Venue Policy →.
• General Parking: $10 per car in Lot D (cash and credit cards accepted).
• Bulldog Club Members: Reserved parking in Lots A, B, and C with valid passes.
• Road Closures: Stadium Drive will close to through traffic 3.5 hours before kickoff.
• Parade Impact: Roads along the parade route will close at noon—expect brief delays if you arrive during the parade and plan extra time for parking.
• Full details: Game Day Parking Information →

🎟️ Tickets & Entry

• Kickoff: 1:30 p.m. at Spangler Stadium.
• Tickets: Purchase in advance online or at the stadium ticket booths. Buy Tickets→
• Will Call: Opens 2 hours before kickoff at designated stadium gates—photo ID required.
• Students, Faculty and Staff: Free admission with valid ID.

🏟️ Stadium & Venue Policies

Gardner-Webb follows all University Venue Policies →.
Key reminders:

• Clear Bag Policy: Only transparent bags (no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″), small bags (no larger than 4.5’ x 6.5”), diaper bags, or medical bags are exceptions.
• No outside food, beverages, or alcohol may be brought into the stadium.
• Concessions available inside Spangler Stadium.

Please contact the director of event services at (704) 406-4269 for more information on the approval process for medical supplies or special food items for diabetics.

📅 Gameday Timeline (Saturday, Oct. 18)

• 10:00 a.m. – Parking lots open
• 11:00 a.m. – Tailgating and alumni/friends tent activities
• 12:00 p.m. – Homecoming Parade begins on Stadium Drive
• 12:00 p.m. – Stadium gates open
• 1:00 p.m. – Golden Knights bring down the game ball in their parachute jump
• 1:30 p.m. – Kickoff: Gardner-Webb vs. UT Martin
•  Full Details: View Game Program→

🔔 Final Tips

• Arrive early—Homecoming draws one of our largest crowds of the year.
• Plan ahead for parking, parades, and tailgates.
• Stick around after the game—Cassette Rewind will perform at Brinkley Amphitheater with food trucks on site. 🎶
• Share your Bulldog pride all weekend with #RunninStrong120.

🐾 Bulldog Merchandise

The Gardner-Webb Barnes & Noble Campus Shop will have merchandise stands inside Spangler Stadium so you can grab your Bulldog gear on game day. The main Campus Shop, located in Tucker Student Center, will also be open on Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.