Relying on the expertise of public health authorities, the state of Tennessee, appropriate university and government agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we are implementing a number of new initiatives on Tennessee football gamedays this fall. The well-being of our student-athletes, fans and staff are our top priorities and guide our decisions. Exposure to COVID-19 is an inherent risk in any public location where people are present; we cannot guarantee you will not be exposed during your visit. The Southeastern Conference in August released several conference-wide fan health and safety guidelines for all member institutions this fall. The Tennessee-specific measures outlined on this page are in line with, and in addition to, the SEC’s guidelines.

Know Before You Go

Gameday Changes

Health and safety protocols related to the COVID-19 pandemic call for several adjustments to the Tennessee football gameday experience. This means that several popular gameday traditions will be absent or adjusted this fall.



We recognize the significance of many longstanding UT traditions and the role they play in the gameday experience for many Tennessee fans. However, public health challenges have made some of our traditions difficult to execute at this time. The Vol Walk and the pregame Pride of the Southland Band march will not take place this fall. Additionally, the Kick-Off Call-In Show broadcast stage near the Gate 21 plaza and amphitheater also will be absent this season, with the broadcast continuing to be available for listeners via the Vol Radio Network.



We also understand the term “tailgating” means different things to different people; therefore, we are providing more specific information for the safety of our fans, employees and community. This fall, large gatherings with inherent social-distancing challenges are prohibited on campus. Small gatherings that follow current health and safety guidelines will be permitted, subject to the following:

Fans are asked to perform a health self-screen and stay home if they feel sick or may have been exposed to COVID-19. Review the CDC list of COVID-19 symptoms.

Parking lots will open four hours before kickoff.

Gatherings should only include family or individuals who plan to sit together in the stadium, at their own spaces.

Only permit-holders may park on campus on gamedays.

Tents larger than 10x10 pop-ups are prohibited. Only one tent per vehicle is allowed. Tents cannot block a parking space or block entry and exit lanes in a parking area.

Fans should wear masks except when eating and should maintain social distancing. Masks are required in the stadium.

University-sponsored tailgates will not occur this year.

The university will continue to evaluate these guidelines, and they are subject to change if recommended safety measures are not followed.The university thanks fans in advance for adhering to these necessary gameday adjustments and helping to promote the health and safety of the campus community.

All water fountains and “Water Monsters” will be closed throughout the stadium for the 2020 season; therefore, fans may bring one factory-sealed, unopened clear water bottle per person.



City Facilities – Several gameday safety precautions are being extended to city-owned facilities as well. The Vol Navy will be limited to boats stacked two deep at the city-owned Volunteer Landing and Vol Navy docks. In a typical season, boaters often tie off from one another in extended rows, and fans socialize in close quarters and walk across each other’s boats. The limit in stacking of boats at city docks is aimed at minimizing the spread of the virus as much as possible by reducing the number of people congregated at the docks. Boaters may dock on a first-come first-served basis. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will be monitoring activities at the city’s docks.



Also, to reduce the size of large gatherings, no tailgating will be allowed in any city-owned parking garages or surface lots.



For more detailed information about gameday changes specific to the City of Knoxville (including public dock guidelines) and Knoxville Area Transit, please click HERE.