UF-sponsored tailgater emphasizes fun without alcohol

October 1, 2013

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida fans and University of Arkansas fans will come together Saturday for the second annual Greater Gator Tailgater.

From noon until 4 p.m. on the Student Health Care Center front lawn on Fletcher Drive, fans can stop by for free food, games, and to watch the pre-game show on a big screen television.  The first 500 fans will receive a free T-shirt.

This is an alcohol-free tailgate hosted by several campus partners including the Student Health Care Center, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, Counseling and Wellness Center, Dean of Students Office, department of recreational sports, Off Campus Life, and University of Florida Police Department.

The choice to make this tailgate a non-alcoholic event came from the Campus Alcohol and Drug Education Policy Committee.  The committee wanted to show that alcohol does not have to be involved to have fun.  It also wanted to provide a place for all fans who want to take part in traditional tailgate activities like food, cornhole and other games but without consuming alcohol and potentially experiencing the associated negative consequences.

The event, held for the first time last fall, was a huge success with more than 1,000 fans in attendance.  The overwhelming support and positive feedback received last year gave the committee the reinforcement needed to make this a new tradition.