Gov. Reeves Sets Stadium Capacities, Bans Tailgating

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed an executive order that sets the guidelines for football to be played in the state of Mississippi this fall.

Under the order, Mississippi State home games will be limited to 25% capacity this season and social distancing of at least 6 feet will be required between all people who do not share a household. Reeves also announced that all pregame gatherings including tailgates, parties and rallies will be prohibited this season.

The executive order is set to expire on Aug. 31. However, Reeves said in his press conference it is his expectation it will be extended into the upcoming season.

Fans in attendance over the age of 6 will be required to wear masks any time they are not in their seats. This includes entering and exiting the stadium and any time spent on the concourses. Fans will be strongly encouraged to wear masks while in their seats but it will not be required. Club and suite areas will be governed by the same regulations as restaurants during the pandemic.

Concession stands will be open, though grab-n-go food and drink options are strongly encouraged. All transactions should be contactless and touchless, such as mobile ticketing and cashless concessions. Stadiums are required to have hand sanitizing stations near concession areas.

College football in Mississippi is set to begin on Sept. 3 when Southern Miss opens with a home game against South Alabama. Mississippi State begins its season on Sept. 26, but the Bulldogs’ first home game won’t be until Oct. 3 when they host Arkansas.