With spring just beginning, the 2026 football season feels much too far away. Luckily, there’s one exciting event that helps us survive the long wait until September, and it’s happening very soon! We’re talking, of course, about the spring game.
The annual spring exhibition game is a big deal in T-Town. What used to be a low-key inter-squad scrimmage is now a major televised event that brings thousands of fans to Tuscaloosa each year. For those having football withdrawals, the spring game is a miniature gameday that gets fans into the spirit with lively tailgates, coordinated chants and, of course, a great football game.
The 2026 spring game will be held in the Stadium on April 11 and will return to the traditional 2-hour scrimmage format. Attendance is free to the public, but seating will be restricted to the lower bowl of the stadium and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you aren’t able to snag a seat in the stadium, you can still attend the pre-game festivities and celebrate the game in style at WestGate. Thanks to our prime location and premium perks, it may just become your favorite way to spend the day, yet!
What is the Spring Game?
This fun home-field scrimmage marks the end of spring practice with an offense vs. defense matchup that tests the skills and strengths of the season’s starting players. After last year’s open practice format left fans disappointed, the 2026 game will return to a 2-hour scrimmage game that kicks off at 1pm.
But the spring game isn’t just a practice game. The game has become a major televised event that draws thousands of fans to Tuscaloosa each year to check out the team and celebrate their love of T-Town football. It includes a full day of fun activities for every fan, from the pre-game “Walk of Fame” ceremony at U of A landmarks to mid-field award presentations and more.
What to know about the 2026 Spring Game
Some changes to the 2026 game format are worth noting this year:
- Admission is free to the public. Gates will open at 12p.m.
- Attendees are required to enter through specific gates (14-17, 21-24, 34 or 47-53) with standard security measures and a clear bag policy in effect.
- Parking will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Seating is restricted to the lower bowl section of the stadium.
- There will be no premium amenities, including no access to suites or club spaces; no upgraded experiences (i.e., locker room tours); and no reserved seating.
Have an Amazing Spring Game at WestGate
The spring game is great all on its own, but celebrating the spring game at WestGate can make it a truly A-MAZING Day thanks to…
An A-MAZING Location. WestGate sits directly in the shadow of the Stadium, putting you right in the heart of the action.
An A-MAZING Atmosphere. Don’t have a ticket? No problem. WestGate’s rooftop SkyGate Club creates an amazing gameday atmosphere where you can celebrate in comfort and style with your fellow fans. You can catch all the gridiron action with 14 seating areas equipped with 65-inch televisions.
A-MAZING Amenities. Enjoy the amazing perks only WestGate can offer all day long. Private storage lockers for spirits and gameday essentials, catered meals, kid’s gaming lounge, and private parking will make your A-Day amazing from start to finish.
A-MAZING Accommodations. The game may be practice, but our luxury condos are pro-level. Enjoy life on the A-List thanks to luxurious upgrades, top-of-the-line appliances, spacious designs, and private balconies.