Essential information for USC’s 2025 home football matches (they’re merely 4 weeks away!)

A new season of USC football is approaching in just four weeks: The season opener against Missouri State is set for 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 30. As always, traditions (like winning) are what render game day at USC special. Here’s a summary of everything you need to know to relish what numerous Trojans regard as the most wonderful time of the year.

Getting there

• If you’re behind the wheel, depart early and allocate ample time to locate parking.
• Drivers are encouraged to acquire a parking permit ahead of time online, as the availability of permits for the USC Downey Way, Shrine and Grand Avenue parking structures is limited. Moreover, passes at the USC Downey Way, Royal Avenue and Flower Street parking structures will not be available for purchase on game days. More parking details can be found online.
• Follow USC Transportation on X (formerly Twitter) for live updates throughout the football season.
• Fans are encouraged to utilize the Metro E (Expo) Line directly to one of the three stations servicing USC: Expo/Vermont, Expo Park/USC, or Jefferson/USC.

Game day on campus

Campus access:

• To guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for all, all visitors entering the University Park Campus will undergo security screenings when driving or walking in. Be prepared to present a government-issued photo ID if requested for scanning. No guest registration is required.

Reservations and regulations:

• A tailgate permit is mandatory for all groups tailgating on campus. No walk-up tailgating is permitted.
• Tailgate bookings must be conducted three weeks in advance of the game to avert late fees.
• Bookings pertain only to the campus grounds and do not encompass parking or a space for vehicles.
• Setups commence six hours before the game, and tailgating must conclude by kickoff.
• Participants must adhere to the Fan Code of Conduct and comply with all university policies and directives from USC staff and security personnel, report inappropriate conduct to security officers, exercise moderation in the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and refrain from smoking. Those found in violation of USC policies will forfeit their future tailgating privileges.
• Further tailgating regulations are online.

Trojan Family Game Day Experience:

• Available on-campus for every Saturday home game and an excellent location if you wish to enjoy the tailgate atmosphere without needing to bring all the equipment.
• Includes activities for children and fans, big-screen TVs displaying college games, ample tables and chairs, and a diverse array of food and beverages including soft drinks, beer, and wine for purchase.
• Open to the public.
• Situated in Alumni Memorial Park, across from Tommy Trojan in front of Doheny Memorial Library.

Other information to bear in mind:

• Glass containers are prohibited on campus. Opt for reusable containers or cans.
• Tailgating and game day parking at USC Village is forbidden. Restaurants and shops are open for dining on all game days, but parking is designated solely for shoppers and dining patrons.
• USC is a smoke-free zone. This policy applies to lit cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, hookah, or any other lit products, and includes the use of any substances including tobacco, cloves, or marijuana.
• Tailgate regulations extend to on-campus gatherings. Similar protocols will apply within the confines of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum but not at Exposition Park, which is not managed by the university.

At the Coliseum

Parking:

• The majority of traffic into Exposition Park is restricted to right turns only. Left turn pockets will be closed.
• Exposition Park lots are permit-only. Cash lots will not be available at Exposition Park during USC football games.

Inside:

• Be prepared for a metal detector inspection and ensure items are clearly visible in a transparent bag.
• Arrive at the gates no later than 30 minutes before kickoff.
• The Coliseum is cashless — only credit/debit cards and mobile payments are accepted.
• The Coliseum is a non-smoking venue — smoking, smokeless tobacco, and related implements are forbidden in all areas of the Coliseum.
• Download mobile tickets to your digital wallet in advance — screenshots will not be honored.
• Additional Coliseum details can be found online.