ATLANTA FALCONS

An Atlanta Falcons gameday experience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is high-energy, immersive, and distinctly Southern—with a mix of cutting-edge stadium technology and strong fan traditions. Below is everything you can expect:

1) Before the Game

• Tailgating:

  • Fans gather in designated lots around the stadium, especially at the Home Depot Backyard, a 11-acre green space next to the stadium.

  • It’s festive with BBQ, music, cornhole, and lots of Falcons gear.

• Fan Plaza:

  • Just outside the stadium gates, with live music, giveaways, photo ops, and appearances by the Falcons cheerleaders and mascot (Freddie Falcon).

• Transportation:

  • Easy MARTA access (stadium is connected to the GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station).

  • Rideshare pick-up zones are organized but can get busy post-game.

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2) Inside the Stadium

• Design & Atmosphere:

  • The stadium is one of the most modern in the NFL, with a retractable roof, a halo video board (the world’s largest 360-degree screen), and impressive lighting and sound systems.

  • Loud, especially when the roof is closed—Falcons fans show out, especially against rivals like the Saints or Panthers.

• The Falcons Drumline and Rise Up Chant:

  • Drumline performances get the crowd hyped.

  • “Rise Up” is the Falcons rallying cry—expect to hear it often.

• Freddie Falcon & Cheerleaders:

  • Family-friendly entertainment, with performances, t-shirt tosses, and crowd interaction.

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3) Food and Drink

• Fan-first pricing: Surprisingly affordable—hot dogs, sodas, and beer are all priced lower than most stadiums.

• Local flavors: Expect Southern staples like fried chicken, barbecue, and peach cobbler. Restaurants like Fox Bros. BBQ and Delia’s Chicken Sausage are fan favorites.

• Bars and lounges: Multiple bars and club areas with upgraded views and craft drinks.

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4) The Game Itself

• Engaged crowd: Falcons fans are passionate, especially in good seasons.

• Interactive tech: App integrations let you order food, view replays, and participate in fan games.

• Halftime: Often features marching bands, contests, or tribute events.

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5) Postgame

• Photos with the stadium: The architecture makes for great backdrops.

• Exit strategy: If you’re using MARTA, try to leave a bit early to avoid a bottleneck.

The Atlanta Falcons tailgating experience is a lively, community-driven  pregame tradition that mixes Southern hospitality, barbecue culture, and serious football energy. While it’s more polished than some older NFL tailgates (thanks to Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s urban location), it’s still one of the better NFL tailgates—especially when the Falcons are hot or playing a rival.

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1) Where It Happens

The Home Depot Backyard

• Primary tailgating zone right next to the stadium.

• 11 acres of grass with room for tents, grills, lawn games, and live DJs or bands.

• Features a mix of hardcore fans, families, and social groups.

• Reserved tailgating spots available (some purchased in advance).

• Sometimes hosts sponsor activations (e.g., giveaways, beer tents, contests).

Traditional Parking Lot Tailgates

• Fans also tailgate in surrounding private lots and garages (e.g., Gulch, Lot A, Blue Lot).

• More DIY and old-school vibe—think pickup trucks, smokers, and die-hards.

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2) Food & Drinks

• Barbecue is king: ribs, wings, pulled pork, and sausage are everywhere.

• Southern staples: mac and cheese, baked beans, peach cobbler, deviled eggs.

• BYOB culture: Most groups bring their own coolers, but vendors sometimes walk around with beer or water.

• Craft beer and bourbon are common choices.

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3) Vibe & Traditions

• Freddie Falcon sometimes makes appearances in the Backyard.

• Fans wear red & black, with some dressed head-to-toe in Falcons gear or themed costumes.

• Rivalry games (especially vs. the Saints or Panthers) bring a more rowdy, intense energy.

• “Rise Up” chants, spontaneous drum circles, and fans blasting music from car speakers or portable systems.

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4) What to Bring If You Tailgate

• Folding chairs, a table, and a tent if you want shade.

• Grill or food setup (note: propane and charcoal both allowed in some areas).

• Speakers or a Bluetooth setup.

• Cooler with drinks + plenty of water for the Atlanta heat.

• Falcons flags, games (cornhole, beer pong), and trash bags (clean-up is a must).

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 5) When to Go

• Tailgating generally starts 4–5 hours before kickoff, but early arrivals get the best spots and vibes.

• For a 1:00 p.m. kickoff, aim to be set up by 9:00 a.m.