Your Ultimate Game Day Guide for UNC Football

There’s nothing quite like a September Saturday in Chapel Hill when the Tar Heels take the field. The energy begins long before kickoff with Chapel Thrill Game Day, where fans gather on campus for live music, food, and family fun. One of my favorite traditions is the Old Well Walk, when the team makes its way from the iconic Old Well through Polk Place, cheered on by students, alumni, and locals alike. It’s the perfect moment of unity that sets the tone for the day.

Across campus, tailgates bring the celebration to life. From the Bell Tower to Dorrance Field, tents pop up in every shade of Carolina blue. Friends and families gather over barbecue, homemade spreads, and good conversation, creating an atmosphere that feels like one big reunion. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just there to soak in the excitement, the sense of community is undeniable.

Once you step into Kenan Stadium, the magic only grows stronger. The Marching Tar Heels strike up familiar fight songs, Rameses makes his rounds, and the cheers of “Tar! Heels!” echo across the stands. There’s a special pride that comes with standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of fans, all rooting for the same team. It’s college football at its most authentic, with pageantry and tradition woven into every play.

And when the final whistle blows, the celebration doesn’t stop. Franklin Street comes alive with a post-game buzz that’s just as much a tradition as the game itself. From grabbing a celebratory bite at Top of the Hill or Four Corners, to winding down with late-night fries at Linda’s, there’s no shortage of places to relive the best moments of the night. Win or lose, the joy of being together carries on.

For me, this is what makes Chapel Hill so special. Game days aren’t just about football—they’re about tradition, connection, and pride in a community that embraces its team and each other. September in this college town is a reminder of why I love calling Chapel Hill home, and why being part of this vibrant place is such a privilege.