Feel the seeds of anticipation sprout as you pull off I-75 and are met with the glowing Mercer bridge across from Five Star Stadium. Black and orange fill campus, tailgates come alive and fans gather outside, waiting to watch the Bears sprint onto the field.
From the first notes of the marching band to the final whistle, every game is packed with school spirit, time-honored traditions and an electric atmosphere that makes Mercer football one of the best game-day experiences in the Southern Conference.
Whether you're a Mercer alum, lifelong Bear supporter, cheering on the visiting team or experiencing your first game at Five Star Stadium, you'll quickly discover why Saturdays in Macon have become a tradition worth traveling for.
There's nothing like a Mercer football Saturday in Macon.
Join the Huddle
Ready to cheer on the Bears? Find this season's opponents, kickoff times and everything you need to plan your game day. Whether you're following Mercer all season long or making the trip for one marquee matchup, your next football weekend starts here.
Don't miss a minute of the action. Secure your seats and experience Mercer football from the stands at Five Star Stadium. Single-game and season ticket options are available through Mercer Athletics.
Park your car at the Mercer baseball lots by the sand volleyball courts as you roll in.
Explore the campus, which has been named one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for consecutive years, as you walk towards the University Center and make your way to Black Field.
Game Day Begins Hours before kickoff
Outside Five Star Stadium, Black Field transform into a sea of tents, grills, music and — obviously — black and orange.
Alumni reunite, families fire up the grill, students send footballs and beanbags soaring through the air and visiting fans are welcomed into one of the Southern Conference's most inviting tailgate scenes.
Crowds gather on the lawn to be serenaded by artists performing in the Ford Concert Series while students organizations like MU Miracle sell baked goods to raise money for the local children's hospital, NPHC chapters stroll and fraternity and sorority members participate in new challenges each week.
Come early. Bring your team colors. Leave with new friends.
Whether you're hosting your own tailgate or simply walking through to soak up the excitement, you'll find plenty of Bear pride before the team ever takes the field.
You won't want to miss the Bear Walk
See Toby and Tot draped in Bears merch as they rile up the crowd. Hear whispers spread among the students body as they try to guess which of their classmates is beneath the orange and black costumes.
Track the cheer and dance teams as they throw pom poms into the air to the beat of the band's soundtrack and, best of all, watch dozens of Mercer Bears lock in for battle — about to lay it all out on the field.
Walk the same steps as the Bears. Follow the sidewalk leading away from Black Field and head toward the stadium. Find the ticketing booth out front, your favorite seat in the house and lay your eyes on the best team in the Southern Conference.
Feel the Roar at Five Star Stadium
From the moment the Bears charge out of the tunnel onto the field, Five Star Stadium comes alive.
The Mercer University Marching Band sets the tune for game day with spirited performances, the cheerleaders and dance team keep the crowd energized from kickoff through the fourth quarter and the Mercer Maniacs student section brings relentless energy that echoes throughout the stadium.
Every touchdown is louder. Every defensive stop is bigger. Every fourth-quarter drive feels like you're part of the action.
Whether you're sitting with family, fellow alumni or the visiting crowd, you're never far from the field, making every touchdown, interception and goal-line stand feel even bigger.
