Maryland Athletics announces several upgrades around SECU Stadium, fan experience ahead of 2025 season

Nearly one week away from kicking off the 2025 season and days removed from announcing Terpsville Fan Fest, an all-ages pregame event inside Jones-Hill House set to kick off three hours before every home game this season, Maryland football has announced several gameday enhancements for the upcoming season.

Maryland announced two new themes for its final two non-conference games, first a “country-themed” game featuring free glow sticks for the Friday night game vs. Northern Illinois on Sept. 5. Maryland will then host ‘Oktoberfest’ for the Oct. 11 game vs. Nebraska with the release noting a ‘festive in-stadium experiences and seasonal celebrations.’ Maryland previously announced themes for several home games with each gameday set to feature ‘special giveaways, performances and fan experiences.’

Maryland previously announced its Little Terps, Big Cheers’ initiative, which allows fans to receive two complimentary tickets for kids 13 and under after the purchase of one adult ticket in Section 212.

“As part of this pilot program, a complimentary stroller check will be available on the 200-level concourse (stroller entry via Gate B) exclusively for fans who purchase through the Little Terps, Big Cheers offer. For all other fans, stroller check remains available at the Riggs Alumni Center,” Maryland said via release. “Families will also benefit from new priority entry lanes designed to provide extra support for those who may need additional time entering. And making its debut this season, Turtle Time with Testudo will give kids and families the chance to meet and take photos with Maryland’s beloved mascot at halftime outside Section 212.”

Maryland also announced the additions of handrails installed and widening the sating by 20% across the lower bowl, while two new grab-and-go concessions have been added behind Sections 3 and 21. “These stands are designed to reduce wait times and let fans get back to the action faster, offering Testudo Premium Lager, a variety of domestic and premium beers, canned cocktails, wine, Pepsi products (including Pepsi Zero and Starry), Gatorade, Aquafina bottled water, and pre-packaged snacks like chips and candy.”

More via release:

Terpsville Fan Fest

This fall marks the launch of Terpsville Fan Fest, presented by Sardi’s – an all-ages pregame destination inside Jones-Hill House. Opening 3 hours before kickoff, the free event features inflatables, face painting, yard games, and more — all on the indoor fields that the Terps practice on. Fans can even toss a football around on the turf, keep up with other games from around the country on large video screens, and snap the perfect picture in a setting that puts you right in the heart of Maryland Football. Food and beverage items will also be available for purchase.

This opportunity will also provide fans an even closer connection to the team before they take the field. If you arrive at least two hours before kickoff, fans will be able to greet the Maryland Football team as they arrive on campus for Terp Walk and enter the facility through Terpsville Fan Fest! 

To access Terpsville Fan Fest, head to the indoor practice facility entrance of Jones-Hill House, located on Fieldhouse Dr., closest to Union Lane Garage. The clear bag policy will be in effect and outside food and beverages will not be allowed inside. Fans will be subject to security screening; click here for a list of prohibited items.

Easier Access on Gameday

Patrons parking in reserved lots (SDG, Z, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1F, 3, and JJ2) will now receive a designated hangtag upon entry, helping ensure smoother traffic flow and accurate use of spaces. Additionally, parking staff will remain stationed at all reserved lot entrances for 30 minutes after kickoff to make sure all permit holders are able to access their spaces.

In addition, select entry points will now feature priority lanes for ADA and Family access, helping those who may need additional assistance and time entering. These lanes will be available at Gates B, E (Student Entry), F, and I, located on the North, West, and South sides of the stadium. 

Honoring Maryland Football History

The South Gate at SECU Stadium has been renamed the Coach Jerry Claiborne Gate in honor of College Football Hall of Famer Jerry Claiborne, who led the Terps from 1972 to 1981. Gate signage will be updated before the Big Ten opener vs. Washington on Oct. 4 and the official recognition will take place vs. Indiana on Nov. 1. Nearly 70 former Maryland Football letterwinners who played under Claiborne contributed to the renaming effort and the creation of the Coach Jerry Claiborne Endowed Scholarship for Football, ensuring his legacy lives on while enriching the gameday experience with a new landmark that celebrates the program’s proud history.

B1G Tailgate Comes to College Park Maryland Football will also host B1G Tailgate for its season opener on August 30 prior to the FAU game. Back for its ninth season with new on-site host Camryn Irwin alongside Tyvis Powell, the show will travel to a different Big Ten campus each week for interviews with a rotation of guests and on-site analysis.

The show in College Park will take place between the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center and Lot 1, and fans on campus for the game are encouraged to stop by and watch the live broadcast. B1G Tailgate will be live on the Big Ten Network from 10 a.m., until kickoff at Noon.