If you’re an Oklahoma fan, you know the Red River Rivalry isn’t just another game—it’s a full-on showdown. Held annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, the OU-Texas game splits the stadium in half, fills the Texas State Fair with crimson and burnt orange, and delivers one of the loudest, most electric environments in college football. Whether you’re a rivalry veteran or making the trip for the first time, this guide will help you tailgate like a pro—and cheer on the Sooners in style.

Best Places to Tailgate Before the Red River Rivalry Showdown

1. Fair Park (Outside the Cotton Bowl)
   Tailgating takes place in various surface lots and grassy areas around Fair Park. Arrive early—spots aren’t reserved, and traffic gets intense. The best setups have a flag flying high, coolers stocked, and music going by 9 AM.
   

2. State Fair of Texas
   Technically, this isn’t traditional tailgating—but it’s a must-do. Entry is included with your game ticket, and fans flood the fairgrounds pre- and post-game for corndogs, fried everything, and that classic Texas fair energy.
   

3. Downtown Dallas Hotels & Parking Garages
   Some out-of-towners turn parking decks or hotel lots into makeshift tailgates. It’s more casual than Fair Park but still a great way to gather with fellow Sooners before walking or carpooling to the stadium.

Rules to Know

OU fans know how to party—but this game takes place in Big D, and Dallas has its own rules. Here’s what to expect around the Cotton Bowl: 

• Open Flames: Small propane grills are allowed in designated areas; charcoal is often restricted.
  

• Alcohol: Officially banned inside Fair Park, but enforcement varies. Keep drinks discreet and avoid glass containers.
  

• Setup Time: Tailgaters typically begin setting up by 6–7 AM on game day. There’s no overnight setup allowed in most lots.
  

• Space: First come, first served. Bring gear that’s quick to assemble and compact—like foldable tables, tents, and flagpoles.
  
  

Check the City of Dallas and State Fair of Texas websites

What to Eat at the Tailgate and Beyond

Red River Rivalry weekend isn’t just about football—it’s a full-on food event. From quick tailgate bites to fairground classics and postgame eats, here’s what every OU fan should try:

Tailgate Must-Haves

• Breakfast tacos or sausage wraps: Easy, warm, and perfect for early setups.
  

• Grilled burgers, finger sandwiches, and handheld snacks: Classic game-day fuel.
  

• Cold beer & water: Hydrate and celebrate responsibly.
  

State Fair Essentials

Fletcher’s Corny Dogs: The official food of the rivalry.
Fernie’s Funnel Cakes: Powdered sugar heaven.
Stiffler’s Mom’s Cookies:  Blue Bell – Post Game sugar rush.
Deep-Fried Everything: Try a Big Tex Choice Award winner and thank us later.

After the Game

Pecan Lodge: Dallas' go-to for brisket and mac & cheese.
Angry Dog:  Dive bar burgers and cold beers with fellow Sooners.
Fuel City Tacos: Cheap, fast, and open late—perfect postgame.

Morning Recovery

The Biscuit Bar: Loaded biscuits + mimosas = OU brunch win.
Houndstooth Coffee: Strong coffee for the early crowd or Sunday sendoff.

🎺 Traditions That Make Red River Special

• Split Stadium: The Cotton Bowl is divided 50/50—OU on one side, Texas on the other. It’s visually wild and incredibly loud.
  

• The Schooner: The Sooner Schooner often rolls across the field after a touchdown—cheer like crazy if it’s your first time seeing it live.
  

• Fight Song Faceoffs: Prepare for constant back-and-forth between "Boomer Sooner" and "Texas Fight." Lose your voice. It’s part of the deal.
  

• State Fair Fare: The game happens inside the State Fair of Texas—get a Fletcher’s corny dog (yes, that’s the name) before or after the game.
  

Tips to Maximize Your Red River Tailgate

• Get there early: Dallas traffic on game day is brutal. Parking fills by sunrise.
  

• Fly your colors: A collapsible flagpole with your OU 3x5 flag is a must for standing out in a crowd of 90,000+.
  

• Pack light but smart: Tailgate gear should be mobile—think tents, coolers, foldable chairs, and trash bags.
  

• Wear crimson proudly: Jerseys, polos, cowboy boots—whatever your vibe is, wear it loud.
  

• Plan your exit: Whether you’re heading back to a hotel or sticking around for the fair, have a postgame plan. Rideshares can take time.
  

✅ Red River Tailgate Checklist

Here’s your rivalry weekend gear list:
✅ OU 3’ x 5’ Fan Flag
✅ Telescoping flagpole
✅ Tent (10x10 or smaller)
✅ Cooler with ice and drinks
✅ Grill or portable food setup
✅ Folding chairs
✅ Trash bags
✅ Paper towels & wipes
✅ Sunglasses + sunscreen
✅ Speaker & playlist

Final Thoughts: Beat Texas. Always.

The Red River Rivalry isn’t just a football game—it’s an all-day event filled with passion, noise, tradition, and fried food on a stick. Whether you’re watching your first OU-Texas game or your 40th, there’s no better way to show up than with your flag flying and your game face on. Bring your friends, bring your gear, and bring the noise. Because in Dallas, there are only two types of people:

Sooners, and everybody else.

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