MSU Athletics Announces The Munn Tailgate – A Pregame Destination for All Spartans
8/25/2025 11:00:00 AM | Football
EAST LANSING, Mich. - In a continued effort to create a more enjoyable gameday experience for Spartan football fans, and with a nod to a cherished tradition for many alums, Michigan State athletics is introducing The Munn Tailgate for the 2025 season. With parking and tailgating spots, and the addition of the 517 Beer Garden alongside Meijer Fan Fest, The Munn Tailgate promises to become a popular site for Spartan football fans, providing food, beverage and entertainment options for all.
"We're excited to introduce The Munn Tailgate as a pregame destination for Spartans of all ages," said J Batt, Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics. "Gameday traditions, including tailgating and the pregame experience, are an important part of what makes Michigan State football gamedays special. I'm confident The Munn Tailgate will quickly become a pregame tradition for many, providing food, drinks and fun for the entire family, and adding to the energy around Spartan Stadium.
"I'm incredibly grateful to President Guskiewicz, his team, and our campus partners (DPPS, IPF, Kellogg Catering, IM Sports and others) for all their work to make The Munn Tailgate a reality."
The Munn Tailgate will include a new pregame destination for Spartan fans looking for food and beverage options - the 517 Beer Garden. Located directly across from the south entrance to Munn Ice Arena at the north end of Munn Field, the 517 Beer Garden will feature multiple bars and food service areas. A variety of food options will be available for purchase including entrées, snacks and dessert. The bars are slated to serve beer, seltzer and craft cocktails. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available. Patrons will be required to show ID at the time of purchase. To streamline service and reduce wait times, the 517 Beer Garden will operate as a fully cashless experience. Credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment methods will be accepted.
The 517 Beer Garden is open to all Spartan fans, regardless of parking location, and will begin service four hours prior to kick-off. Service will end 30 minutes prior to kick-off at which times fans should make their way to Spartan Stadium.
Beginning this season, parking and tailgating will be permitted in the southwest section of Munn Field, with entrance off Birch Road. Cars will require a parking pass distributed by MSU athletics – no general parking is available, and "All-Event" staff parking passes will not be honored due to limited space. The lot will open in alignment with all general parking lots (2 p.m. for Aug. 29, 7 a.m. for games that kick off before 6 p.m., and 11 a.m. for kickoffs at or after 6 p.m.), and all tailgating rules will apply. Individuals with parking passes to The Munn Tailgate will not be permitted to set-up their tailgates prior to lot open times as their specific parking location will be dictated by order of entrance onto Munn Field. Should parking at Munn be closed due to inclement weather, a parking pass to The Munn Tailgate will provide access to any public lot.
"Michigan State football, the Spartan gameday experience and Spartan tailgating have been a foundation in our lives for more than 30 years," said Brian Russ, MSU Class of 1994, Electrical Engineering. "What began in the early 1990's on Munn Field with just a few friends and family has grown into a lifelong tradition – a place where bonds were forged, memories were made, and Spartan spirit became part of who we are. Over the years, this tailgate has become so much more than a gathering, it's become an extended family.
"The Spartan gameday experience at Munn Field is unlike any other. My wife, Richelle, and I, along with our entire tailgate family are so excited to start a new tradition at The Munn Tailgate, while honoring all that was awesome about the past. Spartan Nation, this is the new beginning we've all been waiting for! Come experience the magic that happens at Michigan State on Munn Field and let's gather to prepare Spartan football for glory!"
Meijer Fan Fest, which has activated at Munn Field since 2018, will continue to operate in the northeast corner of Munn Field. Featuring live entertainment and fan activations, including yard games, it's a great family destination on gameday.
Michigan State football opens the 2025 season Friday, August 29 against Western Michigan at 7 p.m.