Northwestern University is gearing up for an exciting start to the 2024 football season as they prepare to take on Miami University (Ohio) this Saturday, August 31. The Wildcats will be playing their first home game at the newly named Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium, a temporary facility located on the north end of the Evanston Campus. This venue is expected to bring a new level of activity and excitement to the campus, drawing in thousands of community members, fans, and visitors for each of the five home games scheduled for this fall.
As the game day approaches, Northwestern University has released a list of important notes and reminders for students, faculty, staff, and visitors regarding closures and campus policies that will be in effect throughout the football season. One key point to note is that several athletics and recreation buildings will be closed on game days to accommodate various activities. The Henry Crown Sports Pavilion, including the Norris Aquatics Center, Combe Tennis Center, membership office, and wellness suite, will be closed all day for the five football games but will reopen the following morning. To provide alternative recreational opportunities, the Blomquist Recreation Center will operate with an adjusted schedule on game days.
Additionally, the Walter Athletics Center will be closed to the public on game days but will remain accessible to authorized University personnel, student-athletes, and credentialed media. While some campus buildings will have restricted public access, the bookstore and Starbucks at Norris University Center will remain open on game days, with adjusted hours for the first three games of the season.
Parking and transportation restrictions will also be in place on game days to manage the increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow on campus. Seven designated parking lots on the Evanston campus will be available for game day parking, with specific closing and reopening times indicated for each lot. Fans and guests are encouraged to use public transportation, bikes, or gameday shuttle buses to access the stadium, as parking will be limited on campus and in downtown Evanston garages.
Furthermore, the lakefill area will close at 10 p.m. the night before each game to set up Lakeside Gameday, the tailgating and watch party experience. Fans with tickets to Lakeside Gameday are welcome to return after the game for food and beverage services, which will continue for a specified time. The area will reopen to the public after the post-game celebrations.
Food and beverage rules will be strictly enforced at both Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium and Lakeside Gameday. Vendors at the venues will serve food and beverages to ticketed patrons, including alcoholic beverages for those over 21 years old. Outside food and beverages will not be allowed within the venues, and alcohol may only be served by licensed caterers at registered University events.
In conclusion, Northwestern University is ready to kick off an exciting football season at the temporary Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. With new levels of activity and excitement expected on game days, it is important for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to be aware of closures, parking restrictions, and campus policies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the season.
