How To Survive The Bayou Classic

Bayou Classic is the biggest event of the fall semester.
To all of the out-of-state students and freshmen, if you thought Homecoming was lit then just wait until you experience Bayou Classic.
The Bayou Classic game is like the Super Bowl of college football in Louisiana.
It’s where the long-time rivalry colleges, Southern vs. Grambling, go head to head and I’m not just talking about the game.
If you’re attending the Bayou Classic, there are certain must-see events that you can’t miss like the Greek Show, the Battle of the Bands, Fan Fest, and the infamous halftime performance.
Think I’m kidding? Over 200,000 fans across the nation travel to New Orleans on Thanksgiving weekend to attend Bayou Classic.
If this is your very first Bayou Classic then allow me to give you some advice on how to survive the biggest experience of this fall semester.
Don’t just limit yourself to attending the game. You’ll be in the beautiful city of New Orleans. Go to Battle of the Bands, which is where the Southern’s band and Grambling’s band square off, and support the Human Jukebox because it’s a must-see experience.
There is also the Greek show, the parade and the Fan Fest which is an event that occurs right outside of the Superdome, before the game.
Everything is better in a group. What makes this experience even more memorable and amazing is attending it with someone, whether it’s family or friends.
Growing up, I’ve had many amazing memories while attending Bayou Classic with my family and when I began college, I started making those same memories with my friends.
Being with a group also makes the experience a lot safer. Around this time of year, places tend to get overcrowded and people tend to be a little rowdy. New Orleans will be full of drunk, crazy people around this time so please find your buddy system and stick with it.
That piece of advice also brings me to my next topic; which is BE CAREFUL ON BOURBON STREET! I put that in all caps for a reason.
You and your friends may want to go out after the game because you’re college students and that’s what we do and because you are in the city of New Orleans your plans may include going down Bourbon street.
I can’t stress how important it is to watch yourself and your surroundings when you go down Bourbon street.
In case you don’t remember, there was a mass shooting on Bourbon street last year during Bayou Classic weekend, that resulted in one person dead and nine people injured.
It’s full of drunk, rowdy, pocket-picking people so stay safe and remember to stay close to your group and keep your belongings within your sight.
Keep this advice in mind and have a Happy Thanksgiving and a great time at Bayou Classic!