Tailgating do’s and don’ts

WASHINGTON — The D.C. region is full of outdoor events in the summer months. From sports to concerts, it’s the perfect time to grab a grill and some folding chairs and tailgate the day away.

But different venues have different policies, so we broke down the rules at some of the region’s top tailgating spots.

Jiffy Lube Live

From the website:

“Tailgating activities should be conducted in accordance to Virginia law and underage drinking is illegal. Guest drop off facility is also allowed, but you will have to return by 9:30 p.m. to pick up your guest as the police will start closing the road by 9:45 p.m. for egress.”

RFK Stadium

From the website:

“Use of more than one parking spot for tailgating will result in guests being charged for two spaces. Please note that vehicles cannot obstruct driving lanes.

“To ensure that each and every guest can enjoy the tailgating experience, please adhere to the following guidelines:

“When parking, please ensure that your vehicle is completely between designated lines. Parking permits are to be used for vehicles only, not for additional tailgating space or storage. Be considerate of other guests and their vehicles. For the safety of all guests and for emergency vehicle access, please keep aisles and driving lanes clear.Dispose of trash in proper receptacles. Prior to exiting, be sure to extinguish all grills or flames properly (i.e. water, dirt, ice, etc.) Do not place a hot grill underneath a vehicle, or on grassy areas. The District of Columbia requires a permit for any tent greater than 10 inches by 10 inches.”

For permit information, visit the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Sorry tailgaters, but alcohol, grills and glass containers are not permitted in the parking areas.

When it’s football time, check out these local stadiums:

Navy Stadium

There are a few options at the Annapolis stadium. One is to arrive early and do it the old-fashioned way, in the parking lot. Simply arrive a few hours before kickoff and get the party started.

For people who really value a good time and don’t mind spending extra money, consider perimeter tailgating.

From the website:

“Roughly 59 spots are held for perimeter tailgaters which includes groups such as U.S. Navy Academy graduate classes, midshipmen and civilian groups.

“Each group enrolled in the program pays a nominal fee prior to the start of the season. The typical spot is roughly 30 feet by 45 feet, which can accommodate at least a 20 feet by 20 feet tent.”

Click here for pricing and reservation information.

FedEx Field

From the site:

“When parking, park your car in one space only and between the white lines. Parking permits are to be used for cars only, not for additional tailgating space or storage. Be considerate of other guests’ vehicles.For the safety of all guests and for emergency vehicle access, please keep all aisles clear. Dispose of all trash in proper receptacles. Prior to entering FedEx Field, please extinguish all flames and grills. Ash dumpsters are available throughout the lots for your convenience. Do not place a hot grill in or under any vehicle.”

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