Each year the Maine Black Bears and New Hampshire Wildcats play for the Brice-Cowell Musket. The rivalry began in 1903, and the rivalry has been going strong ever since. New Hampshire holds a 55-44-8 lead in the all-time series, so come and cheer on the Black Bears as they look to cut into the Wildcats’ lead.

Maine Black Bears Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Maine may not be the first place you think of when it comes to tailgating, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a good time tailgating before a Black Bears game. Black Bears tailgates are a lot more relaxed than what you’ll find at other larger schools, but the camaraderie and friendliness on display creates a fun tailgating atmosphere for any football fan.

You’ll want to arrive at Alfond Stadium early as the lots here open three hours before kickoff and fill up fast. Everywhere you look on game days you’ll find Black Bears fans dressed in blue and navy grilling out and having fun.

Another great part about tailgating before a Black Bears game is that it’s free to tailgate in two of the three lots outside Alfond Stadium. Take advantage of the free parking and enjoy tailgating at a Black Bears game to its fullest.

You won’t find the rowdy crowd of an LSU or Ohio State, but you’ll still have an enjoyable time tailgating with Maine fans before a Black Bears game.

Traditions

Pregame Band and Cheerleader Appearances

Enjoy the appearances by the band, cheerleaders, and mascot before the game. All three put on a fun pregame performance and help create a festive feeling surrounding the tailgate.

Harold Alfond Statue

Snap a picture with the Black Bears’ stadium’s namesake before the game. Alfond made lots of contributions to Maine athletics over the years, making his statue a must-see for longtime Black Bears fans.

Bear Necessities

Stop by the Bear Necessities shop in Alfond Arena before the game to pick up a souvenir. Here you’ll find Black Bears t-shirts, caps, sweatshirts, and much more, so no matter what kind of souvenir you’re looking for you won’t leave empty-handed.

Where to tailgate

Lot C and D

Lot C and D offer free tailgating making them the best place to tailgate before a Black Bears game. Here you’ll be able to set up a tailgate for your friends and family as well as meet diehard Black Bears games before the game.

Maine Black Bears Stadium Guide

In Game

Maine fans are a tightly knit group, and you’ll find a very communal atmosphere when attending a Black Bears game. It seems like everyone here knows each other and the majority of the fans have been coming out to support the Black Bears for years. Don’t worry though as everyone is very friendly and welcoming meaning you’ll instantly feel like you’re a part of the group.

The student section, in particular, does an excellent job of supporting the Black Bears. Maine students show up in high numbers on game days, and the majority stay for the entire game no matter what the score is helping create a fun atmosphere at Black Bears games.

Finally, enjoy the marching band’s and spirit groups’ performances throughout the game. The presence of the band, mascot, and cheerleaders give games at Alfond Stadium a collegiate feel and provide fans with plenty of in-game entertainment.

A Maine Black Bears game is a fun time for any FCS football fan making a visit to Alfond Stadium a good way to spend some time during your trip to Maine.

Things to check out

Black Bear Marching Band

Enjoy the performance of the Black Bear Marching Band when taking in a game at Alfond Stadium. The band puts on a fantastic performance throughout the game and creates a fun atmosphere making them one of the best parts of any Black Bears game.

Bananas the Bear

Keep an eye out for Maine’s mascot Bananas the Bear. Bananas gets into all kinds of antics during the game and is loved by fans young and old, so don’t miss him when attending a Maine football game.

Cheerleaders

Cheer along with the cheerleaders. The cheerleaders’ cheers and chants help propel the Black Bears to victory, so join in and give Maine as much of a home field advantage as possible.

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