BYU football Saturdays are unlike any other game day in college football. The atmosphere at LaVell Edwards Stadium is electric, the fans are passionate (and famously polite), and the Wasatch Mountains provide the most dramatic backdrop in the sport. Whether you're a lifelong Cougar fan, a visiting supporter, or a first-timer who just wants to experience a college football Saturday, this guide covers everything you need to know.
The Stadium
LaVell Edwards Stadium seats approximately 63,000 and sits on the east side of BYU's campus, with the Wasatch Mountains rising directly behind the east stands. The mountain views from the upper deck are genuinely spectacular — one of the few stadiums in America where the scenery competes with the game for your attention.
The stadium is named after legendary coach LaVell Edwards, who led BYU to its 1984 national championship and 257 career wins. BYU joined the Big 12 Conference in 2023, which means the schedule now includes major conference opponents in addition to traditional rivalries.
Getting Tickets
Season tickets are the most affordable option for locals who plan to attend multiple games. Single-game tickets are available through BYU's ticket office and secondary markets. Pricing varies significantly by opponent — Big 12 conference games and rivalry matchups (Utah, Utah State) command premium prices, while non-conference games against smaller programs are more affordable.
Student tickets are available at a significant discount for enrolled BYU students. The student section (south end zone) is loud, standing-room energy — the best atmosphere in the stadium.
Visiting fans: Tickets for visiting team sections are available through the visiting school's ticket office or secondary markets. BYU's fan base is welcoming to visitors — you won't face hostility, even in opposing colors.
Parking & Getting There
Parking near LaVell Edwards Stadium is limited and fills early. Here are your options:
BYU lots: Several campus parking lots open for game-day parking, typically $20–$30. These fill 2–3 hours before kickoff for popular games. Arrive early.
Street parking: Free street parking is available in surrounding neighborhoods but fills up fast and may require a 15–20 minute walk. Respect residential parking restrictions.
Ride transit: UTA provides free special-event bus service between Orem and Provo on game days, with multiple stops north and south of campus. This is the easiest, lowest-stress option.
Walk from downtown: If you're staying at a downtown hotel or eating on Center Street before the game, the walk to the stadium is about 15–20 minutes. It's pleasant and avoids all parking hassles.
Ride-share: Uber and Lyft operate in Provo but can have limited availability and surge pricing after games. Set a pickup point away from the stadium for faster service.
Tailgating & Pregame
BYU tailgating has its own character — family-friendly, food-focused, and enthusiastic without the alcohol-fueled intensity of some other programs (BYU is a dry campus).
Cougar Canyon: The official pregame gathering area along Canyon Road, west of the stadium. Live music, food vendors, sponsor activations, and fan activities set up several hours before kickoff. It's the central hub for the pregame experience.
Independent tailgating: Fans set up in parking lots and grassy areas near the stadium. Grills, coolers, lawn games, and team gear are the standard setup. The atmosphere is social and welcoming — introducing yourself to neighboring tailgaters is encouraged.
Pregame meal: Many fans eat on Center Street before the game — the restaurants are a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Station 22, Black Sheep, and Brick Oven are popular pregame spots. Or grab a J Dawgs hot dog near campus for a quick, cheap option.
Game Day Food
Inside the stadium: Standard concession fare — hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, sodas, and the usual lineup. BYU Creamery products (including the famous chocolate milk) are available at concession stands.
Near the stadium: J Dawgs (gourmet hot dogs), food trucks that set up near Cougar Canyon, and several fast-casual options along University Avenue near campus.
After the game: Center Street restaurants fill up fast after a game. Make a reservation if you're planning a postgame dinner. Brick Oven (root beer and pizza), Communal, and Station 22 are all popular postgame spots. Alternatively, grab food near campus before the postgame traffic clears.
The Fan Experience
What Makes BYU Unique
BYU has one of the most distinctive fan cultures in college football. The crowd is passionate and knowledgeable but famously clean — no profanity, no alcohol in the stadium, and a genuine politeness toward visiting fans that surprises first-timers. This doesn't mean the atmosphere is tame — when 63,000 fans are engaged in a close game against a conference rival, LaVell Edwards Stadium gets loud.
The Cosmo the Cougar mascot is one of the best in college sports — known for acrobatic stunts, crowd interactions, and genuine entertainment value.
Traditions to Know
The fight song: "Rise and Shout, the Cougars are out" plays after every BYU score. Learn the first verse to fit in.
The wave: Happens in the student section and sweeps through the stadium. Participate.
White-outs and blue-outs: For major games, BYU occasionally calls for all fans to wear a specific color. Check BYU Athletics social media before the game for any dress code requests.
Where to Stay
If you're visiting from out of town, book accommodation well in advance for football weekends — Provo's hotel inventory is limited and fills up quickly.
Best options near campus: Best Western Plus Provo University Inn (walking distance), SpringHill Suites by Marriott Provo, Days Inn Provo.
Downtown: Provo Marriott, Hyatt Place Provo — walking distance to both Center Street restaurants and the stadium.
Budget option: Hotels in Orem (10 minutes north) are often cheaper and available when Provo is sold out.
For full hotel recommendations, see our Parent's Guide to Visiting Provo.
Beyond the Game
A BYU football Saturday is a great excuse to explore Provo. Arrive Friday evening for a Center Street dinner. Saturday morning, hike the Y (you'll see it lit up during night games) or walk the campus. Attend the game in the afternoon or evening. Sunday, drive up Provo Canyon to Bridal Veil Falls or Sundance before heading home.
Related Guides
- Parent's Guide to Visiting Provo
- Center Street Dining Guide
- 25 Best Restaurants in Provo
- Best Food Near BYU
- Free Things to Do in Provo
Last updated: April 2026. Game schedules, ticket prices, and policies change annually. Check BYUCougars.com for current season information.