I had the privilege of ringing in the New Year at my very first Packers Game at Lambeau Field and figured I'd share some of the things I learned along with random observations...
The honor system is still in place among strangers. After finding a Lambeau Parking pass on Craigslist the morning of the game, we paid face value for a parking pass that we need to mail back to the owners so they can use it for the playoffs.
Who says you need a nice grill for tailgating? Why not buy one for $9.50 that's disposable? It cooks your food (for the most part) and doesn't damage your truck in any way!
Packer fans are quite friendly. We witnessed Packers and Lions fans posing together for pictures and sharing some good times. With people wandering from row to row, you get to see a lot of interesting characters from both teams. But remember, there's always someone watching!
With wind and snow, dressing appropriately is KEY. Who says only losers wear snowpants? I wore mine happily and enjoyed the warmth and dryness they provided throughout the 6+ hours we were outside- along with the hand warmers that I stuffed in my boots. Granted, going to the bathroom was a little more tricky. Had I not cared about what anyone else thought, I would've taken a picture of the Women's bathroom. It was HUGE and efficient- even with a lack of warm water. Also, wearing a homemade scarf from your sister lets you sport Green Bay colors without spending a fortune! (The picture doesn't do this scarf justice.)
They aren't kidding when they say these games are SOLD OUT. There's not an empty seat in the stadium and the strangers around you become your friends. They help steady the intoxicated, confidently take off their shirts in the 4th quarter, and trust you to watch their stuff when they leave for food, drinks, or the bathroom. You're packed in which goes well with the team name. Be prepared to cozy up to your neighbors.
For anyone who knows me, you'd know I'm not about the put-downs, crude comments, or booing, but at one point I did find myself "Booing" loudly. Then I came up with the following phrase which I can easily live with: "It's okay to "Boo" at someone like Suh."
Just because Rodgers isn't playing doesn't mean that you won't be
witnessing an amazing game! Great job, Matt Flynn!
Also, if you decide to run across the field and you're NOT a player,
you WILL get tackled and escorted away- even if you are only 15 years old.
Overall, it was a GREAT day to experience a game at Lambeau Field. I must admit, however, that it's a LOT easier to catch what's happening accurately when you're at home. You also get to appreciate the Lambeau Leap better at home and don't miss any parts of the game with DVR. BUT if I get a chance to go again, I'd definitely do it.
Happy New Year!
GO PACK GO!
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