The Grove

The Grove is an open green area in the center of the Ole Miss campus, defined by mature oak, elm, and magnolia trees that create a natural setting. On game days, the space fills with tents and crowds of people gathering for food and socializing before matches.

The game day tradition here started in the 1980s when the football coach led the team through the area before heading to the stadium for home matches. An archway was added later to mark the path the team takes on each home game day.

The Grove serves as a gathering place where visitors dress formally and share meals together on game days, turning the space into a social hub rooted in tradition. The way people set up tents and arrange food reflects deep connections to the university and its sports culture.

This venue is accessible mainly on game days, opening on Friday before the event and staying open for several hours after the match ends. Arrive early to secure a good spot for your tent, as the space fills quickly with large crowds.

What started as a simple walk before games has grown into one of the largest pre-game gatherings in college football, with visitors now traveling from far away to participate. The spontaneous growth over decades shows how a small coaching tradition became a major cultural event that draws massive crowds.