Your Guide to JSU Gameday in Jackson
Game day at Jackson State University is one of Jackson's most electrifying experiences, drawing thousands of fans to Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium for an unforgettable blend of football, music, and community spirit.
JSU alum Floyd Williams, Jr., Visit Jackson's Director of Sports Marketing & Administration with 35 years of experience, shares his insider tips to help you make the most of your Tiger game day experience.
GAME DAY TICKETS
Floyd advises buying season tickets as soon as they go on sale, usually in late spring. Since we're past that, his advice is to get tickets online and not wait in line on game day. "Been there, done that, and learned from that mistake," Floyd said.
Tickets and parking passes can be purchased at the JSU Ticket Office at The Vet or online.
Setup typically happens on Friday evening after UMMC parking spaces have emptied ("Those heavy items – on game day, you won't get them in," Floyd said). "When they set up on Friday evening, people typically start tailgating. You'll surely see people on Friday if it's a rivalry." There's on-site security, so your belongings are looked after overnight.
JACKSON STATE TRAVEL & HOTEL BOOKING GUIDE
As for accommodations, seasoned Tiger fans know advance booking is essential. Supporters often stay in cities an hour to two hours away when Jackson hotels fill up. "I've known them to travel as far as Greenville," Floyd said. If you've waited to book, hotels listed on VisitJackson.com will help you navigate what could be a tricky endeavor - if there are rooms still available.
SHUTTLE
Shuttles will run for Homecoming - October 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., and November 22, 2025, for the Alcorn game, 4:00 until 10:00 p.m.
The shuttle runs from Smith Wills Stadium (1200 Lakeland Drive). Parking is $25 per vehicle (credit or debit card only), and the fee includes round-trip shuttle service to The Vet.
GAME DAY ESSENTIALS & JSU PARKING STRATEGY
Start your game day preparation with hydration - this cannot be overstated. Stay hydrated before, during, and after the game. Temperatures are always a challenge for fans. Take proper precautions so you don't miss a moment of Tiger action.
The stadium enforces a clear bag policy, so pack strategically and follow the guidelines. "You don't want to be that person who has to go back to your car to drop a bag off," Floyd said. And while it may seem obvious, don't forget your ticket.
HYDRATE! Saturday's game will be a hot one. Don't forget to drink plenty of water.
PARKING
Research which roads close or have altered routes due to game day traffic. "As early as Friday, get your mind set on how you plan to get there," Floyd said.
Parking presents a significant challenge and CANNOT be purchased onsite. There are three general parking lots at the stadium, but they fill quickly, so early arrival is crucial. "I've seen folks park as far as the Jackson Medical Mall and walk to the stadium.
And if you're walking, comfortable shoes are a must." Floyd avoids that lengthy walk entirely. "If you're going with me," he said, "we'll be leaving home about 9 am."
Respect local businesses by avoiding unauthorized parking in private lots and on sidewalks. When uncertain, don't risk it. Some merchants offer paid game day parking as an alternative.
INSIDE MISSISSIPPI VETERANS MEMORIAL STADIUM
Once you clear security and ticket gates, grab your concessions and visit the restroom first thing. "I strongly suggest you do that early," Floyd said, "because, once the Sonic Boom of the South marching band enters, the atmosphere goes through the roof."
"Very few people leave their seats until halftime. And even then, you won't want to miss the band!"
POST-GAME TRAFFIC & DEPARTURE TIPS
Floyd shares an insider secret for beating the post-game rush. "Stay for the 5th quarter 'Battle of the Bands,'" he said. "There's less traffic to get out." When departing, follow directions from safety officers carefully. "They know the direction to send you." Practice patience: Floyd said, "It pays off every time."
JACKSON NIGHTLIFE AFTER JSU VICTORIES
A Tiger victory makes celebrating effortless. "The alums have events, or maybe the university will have an event," Floyd said. With Jackson's energy soaring, fans naturally connect, asking each other, 'Hey, where are you going?'
"We all find our spots," Floyd said – restaurants, bars, pubs or clubs. "Until 2 or 3 am when you realize you have a 9 am flight!"
GAME DAY SUCCESS STRATEGY
Preparation determines your JSU game day experience quality. Floyd emphasized, "Do your homework early for tickets and reservations and determine how you will execute your strategy for an exciting day."
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