Tailgating at The Jones: Where Red Raiders Always Win

I’ve said it a million times and I’ll keep on saying it—when people complain there’s “nothing to do” in Lubbock, they’re just not looking. We’ve got a Division 1 school, a gigantic stadium, and one of the best game-day atmospheres in the Big 12. And here’s the truth: no matter how the Red Raiders perform on the field, fans ALWAYS win in the parking lot.

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Yep, I’m talking about tailgating at The Jones.

The Tailgate Scene is Unmatched

The scene is electric every single home game. Whether it’s a simple setup—me and a buddy on a truck bed with a tiny Weber grill and some hotdogs—or an all-out production with sponsors, full bars, kegs, catering, live music, and thousands of people, there’s a tailgate for every vibe. And let’s be real: half the fun of Red Raider football lives outside the stadium gates.

The Goin’ Band Always Delivers

Of course, it wouldn’t be game day without the Goin’ Band from Raiderland, who basically win every halftime no matter what’s happening on the scoreboard. (Side note: my father, the late Dave King, was the announcer for the Goin' Band for YEARS!)

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But before the game, it’s the fans who take the spotlight with setups that range from backyard barbecue vibes to mini-music festivals.

Win or Lose, We’ve Got Each Other

I’ve been to just about every kind of tailgate you can imagine at The Jones, and the one thing they all have in common? Community. Lubbock folks love to gather, eat, laugh, and raise a cold one together—because win or lose, we’ve got each other.

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Check Out the Gallery

I asked listeners to send in their favorite tailgate photos, and wow…y’all delivered. Check out the gallery below, and maybe you’ll spot your own crew in the mix!