Game Day in Athens: Tailgating, Traditions, and Bulldog Punch
Hi friends, Ellie here!
This football season feels extra special for me - it’s my very first one as a UGA alum after graduating from the Terry College of Business this past May. Even though I’m not walking across campus to class anymore, Athens still feels like home, and game day Saturdays remind me just how much I love this town.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Athens this weekend for the big game, I’ve pulled together some of my favorite ways to enjoy the day - plus a festive red + black cocktail (and mocktail!) FREE recipe download that’s perfect for tailgates.
Athens Game Day Favorites
One of the best parts about living in (or visiting) Athens is the way the whole town comes alive on game day. A few of my favorite traditions and activities:
Walking around campus before kickoff to soak in the atmosphere.
Exploring downtown Athens - shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, and enjoying all the energy just steps from Sanford Stadium.
Visiting the UGA Bookstore (recently renovated!) for game day gear, gifts, and the perfect red + black outfit.
Cheering at the Dawg Walk, a can’t-miss tradition where the team walks through a sea of fans on their way to the stadium.
There’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re a student, alum, or visiting fan.
Why We Love The Georgia Club on Game Day
When we’re not downtown, one of my favorite places to enjoy game weekends is right here at The Georgia Club. Beyond the incredible homes, what really makes this community special is the lifestyle it offers - golf mornings, afternoons by the pool, pickleball matches with friends, dinner at the clubhouse, and easy connections with neighbors who quickly become like family.
This week, we stopped by the Golf Pro Shop to check out their latest UGA gear - and let me tell you, it’s one of the best-kept secrets for finding stylish Bulldog apparel right here in the neighborhood. 🐾
And the best part? The Georgia Club is only about 12 miles from downtown Athens, so you get the peace and privacy of a gated community with quick access to all the game day excitement.
Red & Black Bulldog Punch Recipe
This cocktail is fun, easy to make in a big batch, and perfectly on-theme with the Dawgs’ colors.
Ingredients (Cocktail Version - serves 6-8):
1 ½ cups vodka (or rum if you prefer sweeter)
2 cups cranberry juice (for the red)
2 cups lemonade
1 cup club soda or lemon-lime soda (for fizz)
½ cup grenadine
Fresh blackberries (the black!)
Ice
Steps:
Combine vodka, cranberry juice, lemonade, and grenadine in a pitcher.
Add fresh blackberries and stir.
Top with soda for a fizzy finish just before serving.
Pour over ice, garnish with extra berries, and enjoy!
✨ Note: The vodka in this recipe is on the lighter side - feel free to adjust the amount depending on how boozy (or light!) you want your Bulldog Punch to be.
Bulldog Punch Mocktail Recipe
2 cups cranberry juice
2 cups lemonade
1 cup pomegranate juice (adds richness + darker tone)
½ cup grenadine
1 cup club soda or lemon-lime soda
Fresh blackberries + ice
Same steps — no alcohol needed! It’s just as refreshing and festive.
✨ Want to save these recipes for your next tailgate?
[Download our PDF recipe cards by clicking on the graphic of your choice above]
Game day in Athens is about more than football - it’s about community, traditions, and making memories. Whether you’re tailgating with friends, walking through downtown, or relaxing at The Georgia Club, there’s no better place to be on a Saturday in the fall.
If you’re thinking about making Athens or Oconee your home, I’d love to show you around. Send us a message to schedule a tour - and in the meantime, download your Bulldog Punch recipe cards and get ready for kickoff!
