Duke University’s football games in Durham are an awesome family-friendly activity! You’ve got tailgating traditions, interactive Kid Zones, a vibrant game atmosphere, and cool campus attractions – there’s truly something for everyone.
And guess what? We’ve got the scoop on the 2023-24 schedule and some seriously exciting promo nights below!
Family Friendly Fun
The tailgating experience at Wallace Wade is second to none. Families can stake their claim in the parking lots surrounding the stadium, setting the stage for a day of lively pre-game festivities. It’s a cherished tradition that brings fans together in the spirit of the game.
Once inside the stadium, the fun keeps on coming. Most games offer a dedicated Kid Zone where the kiddos can dive into interactive games, have their faces painted, and participate in football-themed activities. It’s an absolute blast and a fantastic way for kids to get in on the Wallace Wade Stadium action!
Once the game starts, the family experience continues with an electric atmosphere. The tradition of the “Cameron Crazies,” Duke’s passionate student section, adds an extra layer of energy to the game, giving fans a taste of the collegiate spirit. Throughout the game, the university’s mascot, the Blue Devil, makes appearances, entertaining fans and posing for photos.
Duke Football’s 2023-2024 Schedule & Promo Nights:
CLEMSON: Mon., Sept. 4 | 8 p.m.
Kick off the season with a bang! Join us under the lights as Coach Elko and the Blue Devils take on Clemson in an epic showdown.
LAFAYETTE: Sat., Sept. 9 | 6 p.m.
Calling all Duke employees! This night is for you. Enjoy fantastic football and a pregame tailgate on the practice field.
Youth Sports Night
NORTHWESTERN: Sat., Sept. 16 | 3:30 p.m.
Join us in honoring our brave military members from across the region. Purchase special Salute A Soldier tickets in our Heroes Zone section for only $10 each.
NOTRE DAME: Sat., Sept. 30
Welcome back, Duke alumni! Get ready for the best fall weekend at Duke. Join your fellow alumni for a weekend filled with fun, football, and so much more.
Healthcare Appreciation Day
NC STATE: Sat., Oct. 14
Celebrate the Bull City with a matchup against the NC State Wolfpack. Exclusive Durham Day ticket offer that includes free concessions.
Spirit Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
WAKE FOREST: Thurs., Nov. 2 | 7:30 p.m.
Extend the Halloween fun! Come dressed to impress for another round of Trick-or-Treating on the stadium concourse, followed by a halftime kids costume parade on the field.
PITTSBURGH: Sat., Nov. 25
Join us as we celebrate the 2023 Duke Football Senior Class!
Senior Day
Arrive early to join in celebrating this year’s Duke Football senior class.
For families looking to combine their love for football with academics, the proximity of Duke University offers a chance to explore the campus and its various attractions, such as the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or the Duke Lemur Center, offering both fun and educational experiences for children.
Also See: 18 Best Things to Do with Kids in Durham
We think Duke football games are the ultimate family outing. They merge the excitement of the game with a sense of community, ensuring that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest family members, can enjoy an unforgettable day together!
What division is Duke’s football team?
Duke’s football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), specifically in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Where should I park?
Parking and Traffic Maps
If you’re heading to a Saturday Duke Football game, here’s the scoop on parking:
- For Iron Duke Parking Lots, they swing their gates open at a bright and early 6 a.m. on game day.
- Now, if you’re in the General Public Parking Lots, like the Jogging Trail Lot on NC 751/Cameron Blvd., or the Chemistry Lot on Circuit Drive, those lots open up at 7 a.m. on game day. And here’s a tip: most other lots will roll out the welcome mat three (3) hours before kick-off.
- And hey, if you’ve got a recreational or oversized vehicle, aka RV/OV, you’re in luck! The GC Lot opens up from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Friday evening before game day. Then, it takes a little nap until 7 a.m. on game day and wraps up the party at 12 p.m. the Sunday after.
Oh, and here’s the best part: for all you regular-sized vehicle folks (that’s less than 9 feet wide and 18 feet long), General Public Parking is free! Duke University and Medical Center Students and Employees, you’re welcome to park here for game day too.
What is the clear bag policy at Duke?
Duke follows a clear bag policy for football games, which means that fans are required to use clear bags when entering the stadium. This policy is in place for security purposes and allows for quicker and more efficient security screenings. The approved clear bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″, small clutch bags no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, and one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags. It’s important to note that non-clear bags and backpacks are generally not permitted.
Author: Tony Belch
Co-Founder of Best of the Bull. I’m a Durham native and have loved watching this city transform. I almost feel as if Durham and myself “grew up” together. Most days you will find me working at Duke University or doing my best to keep up with my entrepreneurial wife and energetic son! We hope you enjoy BOTB as much as we enjoy doing it.
