The Red Beans and Rice Bowl is the name of the annual rivalry game between the Central Arkansas Bears and McNeese State Cowboys. The rivalry is named after the importance the rice industry has in both Louisiana and Arkansas, and each year the winner takes home a bronze bowl trophy. The series is tied at 5-5, so make sure to be in attendance when the Bears try to take the lead this season.

Central Arkansas Bears Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

UCA is home to one of the best tailgating scenes in the FCS as fans from all over the area come to Bruce Street to party before the game. Bears fans love to tailgate, and it shows on game days as the university closes down an entire street creating a fun block party atmosphere. Everywhere you look on game days you’ll see a sea of purple and gray along Bruce Street, so come prepared to tailgate and enjoy the pregame festivities at Central Arkansas.

In addition to a fun tailgating atmosphere, Bruce Street is also where you can catch the Bear Walk before the game. The Bear Walk takes place two hours and fifteen minutes before kickoff and is your chance to cheer on the Bears as they make their way to the stadium. There are few better ways to get into the UCA spirit than the Bear Walk, making it a must-see part of the UCA tailgating experience.

Finally, if you’re taking the kids to the game or looking for some pre-game entertainment, stop by Bear Grounds. At Bear Grounds, you’ll have the opportunity to win prizes and kids will be able to enjoy bouncy houses and other activities before the game.

The tailgating scene at UCA is among the best in the FCS, so arrive early and enjoy everything that Bruce Street has to offer before the game.

Traditions

Bear Walk

During the Bear Walk, the team and band march down Bruce Street to the stadium approximately two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff. The Bear is your chance to give the Bears some last minute inspiration, so don’t miss it during your trip to Central Arkansas.

Bear Grounds

Located in front of the Farris Center, Bear Grounds features giveaways, kids activities, large screen TVs with games from around the country, and much more. Stop by Bear Grounds three hours before the game and enjoy the pregame festivities.

Where to tailgate

Bruce Street

If you want to be at the center of the tailgating action at Central Arkansas, then make sure to reserve a spot on Bruce Street. Tailgating on Bruce Street starts six hours before kickoff and three hours before kickoff the street is closed off to traffic. Those of you who want to experience Bears tailgating at its best will without a doubt want to get a spot along Bruce Street.

Central Arkansas Bears Stadium Guide

In Game

The stands at Estes Stadium are packed full of dedicated fans on game days making a Bears game a fun experience for any FCS football fan. UCA students, alumni, and fans come out in large numbers to support the team making it difficult for opposing teams to walk away with the W and creating a great atmosphere inside the stadium.

The Bear Marching Band, Bruce D. Bear, and the cheer team also create a fun atmosphere at Bears games. The band’s performances are must-see parts of any game, and you won’t be able to help but join in the chants and cheers lead by the cheerleaders.

Finally, the unique look of the purple and gray turf at Estes Stadium gives Bears games a one of a kind feel. The alternating color scheme makes it easier to see the ball marching down the field, and the colors let everyone in attendance know that they’re at the home of the Bears.

A UCA Bears football game is a lot of fun making a trip to Conway, Arkansas a must for any die-hard FCS football fan.

Things to check out

Purple and Gray Field

Estes Stadium is home to a unique playing surface that alternates between purple and gray creating a unique feel you won’t find elsewhere. The one of a kind turf design also gives the Bears a nice home field advantage as well. Enjoy the sight of the purple and gray turf when attending a Bears game.

Kidz Bounce Zone

Located in the South End Zone, the Kidz Bounce Zone is the perfect way to keep the kids entertained throughout the game. The Kidz Bounce Zone opens 45 minutes before the game, so stop by with the kids before or during the game.

Bear Marching Band

The Bear Marching Band puts on a fantastic show at UCA football games making them a must-see part of any game. Both their pregame and halftime shows are excellent, so stay in your seat when you see the Bear Marching Band take the field.

Bruce D. Bear

Keep an eye out for the UCA mascot Bruce D. Bear at the game. Bruce gets into all kinds of shenanigans throughout the game and is especially popular among young fans.

Cheerleaders

Join the UCA cheerleaders as they cheer on the Bears to victory. The cheer team performs a variety of routines at the game and will get you up and cheering no matter what the score.

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