CHAMPAIGN, IL – Football fans at Memorial Stadium will notice several changes while attending games in 2021. Illinois opens Bret Bielema's first season as Fighting Illini head coach by hosting Nebraska on Aug. 28 with a 12:20 pm CT kickoff.
Fans attending games this year should be aware of the following:
NOTE: All aspects of the following GameDay information are subject to change due to COVID-19 and the DIA's commitment to adhering to appropriate NCAA, national, state, community and campus safety guidelines.
The Illinois Football GameDay Guide that includes information on Memorial Stadium, parking, and Grange Grove can be accessed at FightingIllini.com (HERE)
2021 Mask Policy
In compliance with current University of Illinois policy, all faculty, staff, students and visitors are required to wear masks indoors at all Campus buildings. This policy includes fans at Memorial Stadium. Fans at Illinois football home games are required to wear masks or facial coverings, which cover both their nose and mouth, in indoor locations, unless actively eating or drinking. These locations include, but are not limited to: inside the East and West Great Halls, elevators and elevator lobbies, first-aid rooms, premium seating hallways and club spaces, and restrooms. In the outdoor environment, fans are not required to wear face coverings or masks, although the CDC does recommend mask wearing in large gatherings.
Mobile Tickets and Parking
Fans have the option to use mobile tickets and parking when purchasing their Fighting Illini football tickets. Instructions on how to use mobile tickets will be sent directly to fans who have chosen mobile delivery at time purchase. Fans are encouraged to add their mobile tickets to the Apple Wallet or Google Pay on their smart phone before arriving at Memorial Stadium to avoid any potential connectivity issues.
Purchasing parking passes in advance (until 11:59 pm CT the night before a game) saves $5 and costs $20. GameDay parking at the lot will cost $25. Fans may also receive a complimentary season parking pass by donating to the IFUND. Visit JointheIFund.com for more information.
Cashless Concessions
Fighting Illini concessions are moving to cashless at all venues starting the 2021-22 season. At Memorial Stadium, kiosks have been installed at all permanent concession stands for patrons to use their credit or debit card to order and pay for their selections.
Clear Bag Policy
Fans will be able to carry the following styles and bag sizes into Memorial Stadium: Bags that are CLEAR plastic or vinyl and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"; CLEAR drawstring bag 12" x 12"; One-gallon CLEAR plastic storage bag; Small clutch no larger than 4.5" x 7". Exceptions will be made for diaper bags (with child) and approved medical needs after proper inspection. All backpacks regardless of size are prohibited and any bags larger than 12" x 6" x 12", clear or non-clear, will be strictly prohibited. Fans are encouraged to bring only necessary items into Memorial Stadium and all bags are subject to search and inspection.
Fans are permitted to bring sealed bottles of water into Memorial Stadium.
Tailgating
Parking lots around Memorial Stadium will open at 7 a.m. on game days. Tailgating rules will return to pre-COVID policies that were in place in 2019. Details are on the GameDay web page at FightingIllini.com (linked above).
Football fans at Memorial Stadium will notice several changes while attending games in 2021. Illinois opens Bret Bielema's first season as Fighting Illini head coach by hosting Nebraska on Aug. 28 with a 12:20 pm CT kickoff.
