The Michigan College Football season is underway!
To get in the Maize and Blue spirit, we interviewed University of Michigan football superfan and Destination Ann Arbor team member, Christine Eleby, for her tips, tricks, and favorite experiences on attending a Michigan game. Find out what Christine recommends to help you plan your best game day.
What advice would you give someone attending their first U-M football game?
You're going to the Big House®, it's exciting. My advice, be patient. Over 100,000 people are going to the same place, get there early so you don't miss the kickoff. Don't forget to eat some concession food, because that is a staple. You've got popcorn, kettle corn, and hotdogs (plus more). There's also a Big Boy at the stadium now.
What is the most memorable game you've ever experienced?
When we beat Ohio State, that was such a fun game, and everybody rushed the field. It was exciting because we've gone a very long time without beating them. That's one of the teams where, every year, the goal (is to beat them). 
What's the best thing to do after a U-M victory?
It depends on when the game starts. For a night game, I recommend enjoying the day in Ann Arbor before heading to the game. Once it ends, you'll likely want to end your night, but there are a few late-night spots to keep the party going if you have energy to burn. If you're going to a daytime game, you have the evening to explore. Head downtown, go to the shops and don't forget to buy some Michigan gear at Elmo's.Then, end the day with a meal. If you want to go somewhere a bit upscale, make a reservation in advance. My favorite is Peridot, a Vietnamese-inspired restaurant with an amazing bar program. But if you're going somewhere like Fleetwood Diner, an iconic spot, you can walk in, they don't take reservations anyway.
Where should people go for their game day gear to get the most exclusive jerseys or T-shirts?
Rally House has a wide selection and you can get customized jerseys which is a fantastic gift. Another place is Underground Printing. They have three locations; one downtown on Main Street, another just south of downtown on Main Street, and a third on South University Ave. I also love Elmo's in Nickels Arcade, a local family has run this business since 1977.
What excites you the most about attending a U-M football game?
As a season ticket holder, I think what I get most excited about is the traditions inside the stadium. The chants, songs, and cheers you don't experience watching on your couch at home. It's fun to watch the team grow and work together and watch fans and the camaraderie between everybody. This is the third year that we've been in the same seats. We have a friendship with the people that have season tickets next to us. And that's fun, getting to know people around us.
Thank you to Christine for sharing football tips, insight as a season ticket holder, and fandom on all things Wolverines. Go Blue!
