Gorilla Game Day FAQ


Pittsburg State offers fans and visitors one of the best gameday experiences in the nation.
Join Gorilla Nation and enjoy gameday traditions that date back generations.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

When do parking lots open?

Unless otherwise specified, lots open at 7 a.m. the day of the game.

 

Is reserved parking available?

Portions of the Champions Plaza parking lot and the Grubbs parking lot are reserved for Gold Parking Permit holders. All other areas are open to the general public.

 

Is handicapped parking available?

Yes. The east side of Joplin street, in front of Carnie Smith Stadium, is reserved for handicapped parking. Spaces are also available within the Champions Plaza parking lot, after paying the $10 parking fee.

 

How much does it cost to park on Gameday?

The cost is $10 in the Champions Plaza Lot. All other lots are $5.

 

Is there a special parking lot for RVs?

Yes. RVs should park in designated areas in the West Weede parking lot and contact University Police at 620-235-4624 for admittance. 

 

Is there an additional charge for RV parking?

Yes. Due to their size RV parking is $20.

 

Is there a time limit on gameday alcohol consumption?

Yes. Alcohol consumption in gameday parking lots and designated tailgating areas must stop at kick-off. State law requires that all persons consuming alcohol be at least 21 years of age.

 

What type of alcohol can I bring to my tailgate?

Alcohol is restricted to cereal malt beverages. Bulk containers such as kegs of any size and other similar containers are not allowed. You may not sell alcohol at Gorilla tailgates.

 

Do I need a special cooler or container to transport beverages into my tailgate?

No. Although we do encourage fans to show their Gorilla spirit by using coolers that are red or gold in color.

 

Can I bring my beer bong?

No. Gorilla tailgaters understand the importance of being responsible. This is why they leave their beer bongs, funnels or any other device intended to increase the speed at which alcohol is consumed at home. Drinking games such as beer pong are also not allowed.

 

Can I set up my tent in the parking lot?

Yes. However, tents should not take up space in other parking spaces or the emergency travel lane. Tents may not be used to save parking spaces.

 

Are there any restrictions on tent sizes?

We encourage fans to use tents no larger than 10’ x 10’.

 

When do I have to take down my tent?

Because unexpected winds can cause tents to scatter when unattended, tents should be taken down before you enter the game.

 

Can I bring my living room couch to my tailgate?

No. (And we’re not sure why you’d want to) Please leave your couch, recliner, bunk bed, and any other type of furniture that is designed for interior household use where it belongs … in the house. Please limit your seating to collapsible chairs.

 

When do I have to leave the parking lot?

We know you love a good tailgate but we do ask that you clear the parking lot no later than 90 minutes after the end of the football game. (Our crews need to get the lot cleaned and ready for next week’s classes)

 

Can I bring glass bottles to my tailgate?

Glass containers are not allowed during tailgating activities. Broken glass can be a safety hazard for tailgaters and for students on campus during the week.

 

Can I play music at my tailgate?

Yes, but music should be confined to your tailgate area and speakers should be directed into your tailgate party. Tailgaters are encouraged to contact PSU police if music from another tailgate party becomes a nuisance.

 

Is live music allowed at my tailgate?

Live bands and DJs are not allowed in tailgating areas.

 

Can I bring my dog to my tailgate?

Yes. Dogs are allowed in tailgating areas provided they are on a short leash and they are under the supervision of an adult at all times. You must not leave your dog unattended or place them in a vehicle during the game. You are responsible for your dog’s behavior. No other animals are permitted.

 

Are areas outside of parking lots available for tailgating?

Yes. Fans are welcome to tailgate in areas surrounding the Gorilla Walk. Official areas include the Corporate Tents, Gorilla Village and our newest designated area, Gorilla Grove. Gorilla Grove is located south and west of the Weede lot, and is centered around Pittsburg State students.

 

When does the stadium ticket office open?

The stadium ticket office opens two hours before kickoff for purchases and will-call pickup.

 

What is the Gorilla Walk?

One of Pittsburg State’s most storied traditions, the Gorilla Walk is the paved trail that connects Carnie Smith Stadium to the Robert W. Plaster Center. Fans surround this pathway approximately 80 minutes before kickoff to greet players, coaches and special guests as they make their way into Carnie Smith Stadium. Each player and coach touches the Champions Plaza Gorilla sculpture for good luck during the Gorilla Walk.

 

When does the Gorilla Walk take place?

Approximately 80 minutes before kick-off.

 

When does the pep rally take place?

The Pride of the Plains marching band, Pitt State Spirit Squad and Crimson and Gold Dancers lead thousands of fans in a special pep rally in Gorilla Village at the end of the Gorilla Walk.

 

Can I take food or beverages into the stadium?

No outside food or beverage may be taken into Carnie Smith Stadium.

 

May I bring bottled water into the stadium?

Yes. You may bring one unopened bottle of water into the stadium. For additional allowed items, see Stadium Policies.

 

Can I buy tickets to the game online?

Yes. Tickets are available at our ticket office (located in the Weede Physical Education Building) or online at pittstate.edu/tickets.

 

Can I print my tickets at home?

Yes. You have the option of printing your tickets at home and bringing them to the game. Please make certain your ticket barcode is clearly printed so that it may scan properly. All applicable fees and pricing apply.

 

When do the stadium gates open

Carnie Smith Stadium gates open 90 minutes before kickoff.

 

 

  • Parking
  • FAQ's
  • Policies
  • Emergency Info
  • Tradition & Points of Interest

Pittsburg State University offers nine parking lots conveniently located within walking distance of Carnie Smith Stadium.

PARKING

To fully experience Gorilla GameDay, we recommend taking part in our many traditions.

FAQ

Whether you are a visitor or a member of Gorilla Nation, these policies will help you get the most out of Gorilla GameDay while staying safe.

POLICIES

Providing a fun and family-friendly atmosphere is second only to ensuring your safety while on our campus.

EMERGENCIES

Gorilla GameDays offer something for everyone. Tremendous tailgating, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, delicious food and, of course, the best stadium and winningest NCAA Division II football program in the nation.

 

TRADITION