Michigan State Preparing For 'Full and Robust' Stadium Experience

Michigan State plans to deliver the traditional football experience this fall to a "full and robust" 75,005-seat Spartan Stadium.

Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics Bill Beekman said that Spartan football Saturdays are about more than just a game, and he anticipates that all aspects — including tailgates — will be back this fall.

"They are an all-encompassing experience that connects Spartans of all eras around gameday traditions," he said on Thursday. "Traditions such as tailgating, the Spartan Marching Band, cheer and dance teams, photos with Sparty, hospitality events and simply reconnecting with fellow Spartans."

With new CDC guidance, higher vaccination rates, capacity limits and mask mandates lifting, along with the state’s loosening of restrictions, Beekman said he is increasingly confident about the fall.

Beekman said Spartan Stadium is one aspect of the campus that connects the community, and he can't wait to see the camaraderie among Spartans at the pre-game tailgates.

"After a year missing those traditions, as a department we are planning to have a full and robust Spartan Stadium and deliver as traditional a Spartan football experience as we possibly can," Beekman said.

MSU will kick off its season on Sept. 4 against Northwestern on the road before its home opener against Youngstown State on Sept. 11 at Spartan Stadium.