The Local Auburn Mom’s Guide to Surviving Football Season

The Local Mom’s Guide to Surviving Football Season

Because you can love game day and still need a nap by halftime.

Football season in the South is basically its own personality trait—and if you’re raising a toddler in a college town, you already know how chaotic and beautiful it can be. Here’s your guide to making the most of game days in Auburn (or anywhere in the SEC), even if you’re spending half the time chasing snacks or changing diapers in the back of an SUV.

As much as we love the energy on the Plains, we also love not having to sprint after a toddler in a packed student section. So, whether you're headed into Jordan-Hare, watching from a local spot, or keeping it cozy at home, here’s how to enjoy Auburn football season mom style without losing your mind (or your tailgate snacks).

1. Tailgate Smarter, Not Harder

Gone are the days of hours-long tailgates with nothing but queso and college friends. These days, we’re thinking shaded spots, easy exits, and baby wipes on hand at all times.

Mom-Friendly Tailgate Essentials:

A soft picnic blanket or folding chairs with shade
Mini cooler packed with waters, string cheese, and juice boxes
Portable fan + sunscreen
A quiet spot nearby for stroller naps
Noise-canceling headphones for babies if you're near the band

2. Know Where to Watch Without the Chaos

Some days, the stadium just isn’t going to happen. And that’s okay! Auburn has several game day-friendly spots where you can watch the game without losing your toddler (or your cool).

Our Favorite Local Watching Spots:

Hey Day Market – A go-to for families. You can grab a bite, spread out at a table, and still catch the game on the big screen while your toddler snacks or runs around the green space. Plus, you can pop into the AC at any time to cool down.
Plaza Bar at Midtown – Cheesy tots make a great game day snack, no matter your age! Located a bit further away from campus, so you’d probably miss some of the chaos.
Botanic – They often host game day gatherings with good food, and live music—perfect for socializing while your little one plays & looks at the ducks.
Your Backyard – Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s easiest to stream the game at home, toss a few beers in the cooler, and let the kids splash in the baby pool while you yell "War Eagle" from your patio.

3. Game Day Fits: Functional but Cute

Yes, we still love a good orange-and-blue outfit, but now we’re pairing it with sneakers we can chase a toddler in and a crossbody that holds wipes and a snack pouch.

Mom Gameday Uniform Ideas:

Flowy dresses with pockets
Auburn tee, cute skort, and a team ball cap
Bow top with denim shorts
Matching team gear for mom + mini (because you KNOW we’re taking a picture)

4. Keep the Littles Entertained

Let’s be real: Your toddler isn’t watching the second quarter. Keep a bag packed with distractions so you can at least catch the highlights.

Gameday Distraction Bag:

Water coloring book
Reusable sticker pad
A few small cars or action figures
Puffs, Goldfish, and apple slices in THESE snack cups
Sunscreen!!

5. Make It a Memory (Even If You Leave at Halftime)

One of my favorite things about football season in Auburn is the feeling—the band in the distance, the sound of the eagle soaring, the sea of orange and blue. Even if you only stay for a quarter, your kids will remember the tradition. And there’s zero shame in heading out early, grabbing Toomer’s lemonade, and calling it a win.

Final Thought

There’s something magic about raising your kids in a town that lives and breathes football. Even if your weekends look more like baby wipes and bedtime battles than bars and touchdowns—this season still belongs to you, too.