Is match ticket included with the tailgate party pass?

No, match tickets are sold separately and are only available with select VIP Platinum Suite Packages.

Is the event suitable for families?

Yes, the tailgate party is family-friendly with fun activities and games for all ages.

Are there food options for dietary restrictions?

The buffet includes a variety of food choices, but it’s best to inform the event organizers ahead if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I bring my own alcohol to the tailgate party?

No outside alcohol is allowed; open bars inside provide beer, wine, and sodas.

Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?

Soldier Field and the tailgate parties are wheelchair accessible; contact the organizers for specific accommodations.

What public transit options serve Soldier Field?

Various CTA buses and the Metra Electric Line serve Soldier Field, making public transit an easy choice.

Experience the Ultimate Ireland vs All Blacks Tailgate Party at Chicago’s Soldier Field

On November 1st, a historic rugby showdown returns to Chicago’s Soldier Field, where Ireland will face the All Blacks in a highly anticipated rematch. This iconic stadium, steeped in sporting history and perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, witnessed one of rugby’s greatest upsets back in 2016 when Ireland toppled New Zealand before a record crowd. Now, fans can dive into the electric atmosphere once again with exclusive access to the official fan tailgate party just steps from the stadium gates. The tailgate experience captures the spirit of rugby culture with its lively, communal vibe. Guests enjoy an all-inclusive buffet that caters to every craving, alongside open bars serving beer, wine, and sodas, perfect for fueling pre-game excitement. Whether stretching out in comfortable seating areas or challenging friends to lawn games, the atmosphere buzzes with camaraderie and unforgettable energy, underscored by a live DJ spinning tracks that keep spirits high. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP Suite Packages offer a private tent outfitted with lounge groups, cocktail tables, and the attentive service of dedicated concierges. These intimate suites feature in-suite food service and premium bars, creating a luxurious setting to celebrate the match with up to 30 guests. TVs inside the suites ensure you won’t miss a moment of the action while enjoying the comforts of a high-end lounge. Soldier Field itself stands as a centerpiece of Chicago’s outdoor sports culture. Opened in 1924, the stadium combines historic grandeur with modern amenities, making it one of the country’s premier venues for live events. Its location near downtown Chicago means plenty of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options are close by, allowing visitors to extend their weekend with city exploration. While match tickets aren’t included with standard tailgate passes, limited premium seats in the lower bowl between the 22-meter lines are available exclusively through the Platinum Suite Packages. These provide phenomenal sightlines onto the pitch and VIP access to the party. This tailgate party is more than just an event; it’s an immersion into the fervor and tradition of international rugby embraced by Chicago’s passionate sports fans. Whether you’re a longtime rugby enthusiast or new to the sport, it’s a perfect way to join the buzz and create lasting memories at a venue that’s as iconic as the game itself.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

No special fitness level required; suited for all ages and abilities.

Wildlife

Urban-dwelling pigeons frequent the stadium areas.
Occasional sightings of small songbirds along the lakeshore paths.

History

Soldier Field opened in 1924 and has hosted countless historic sporting events, including the 2016 Ireland vs All Blacks rugby match where Ireland scored a stunning upset.

Conservation

The event encourages recycling and reduced waste practices, with efforts to manage environmental impact during large-scale gatherings.

Gameday is a Madison, Wisconsin company that organizes game day and tailgate experiences for college and professional football events. It offers curated packages for Regent Street tailgates in Madison and tented tailgate lots at Soldier Field in Chicago, plus transportation options such as the Irish Express coach trips to Notre Dame. Gameday's packages range from compact setups to full-service tailgate spaces with seating, tables, coolers, and entertainment items. Packages include the Custom, Varsity, MVP, Hall of Fame, All-Star, Playoff, Kickoff, Championship, and specific Irish Express options, covering both Regent Street and Soldier Field offerings. Each package lists core amenities—tented spaces sized between 10’x10’ and 20’x20’, folding chairs, six-foot tables with linens, coolers, and optional cornhole sets—providing clear, practical offerings for groups of varying sizes. Gameday coordinates logistics such as reserved tented space, seating counts, and transport departures from locations like Guinness Open Gate Brewery for bus trips. The company focuses on delivering stress-free game day experiences by handling setup details and group transport so attendees can focus on the event. Gameday works with established venues in Madison and Chicago and publishes specific package contents to set expectations. Prospective customers can evaluate options by comparing package sizes and included amenities. Detailed package summaries and clear amenity lists allow groups to select appropriate options for budgets, group sizes, and travel preferences with confidence, including year-round event coordination.

Base locationSouth Bend, Indiana

Tours offered68+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace