Tailgate Guide: Denver Broncos-New England Patriots AFC Championship

• When: January 25, 2026 — 1:00 PM MST
• Where: Empower Field at Mile High

Arrival & Tailgating

• Target arrival: 8:00–9:00 AM for prime parking and setup
• Lots typically open early for playoff games
• Energy builds fast, especially by 10:00 AM

VIP & Major Tailgates

• Broncos VIP Tailgate (Bullseye Event Group):
  • Starts ~10:00 AM (3 hours pre-kickoff)
  • Located at the Mile High Monument
  • Cost: $100-150 per person (all-inclusive)
  • 4+ hours of food, drinks, games, and orange-out energy

• DNVR Broncos AFC Championship Tailgate
  • Runs from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Located at SportsFan (1729 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO; Back Parking Lot)
  • Cost: $120 per person for standard, $150 per person for standard + shuttle from DNVR Bar
  • Family-friendly vibe with unlimited food from Saucy’s Southern BBQ and Sexy Pizza, alcoholic drinks, TVs, games, and prizes

• Premium Tailgate Party at Premium Tailgate Tent
  • Begins ~10:00 AM
  • Located at Premium Tailgate Tent near Empower Field
  • Cost: $81 per person
  • Unlimited buffet-style food, beer and soft drinks, entertainment, and special appearances

Weather & What to Wear

• Highs: 35–40°F
• Lows: Teens to low 20s post-game
• Possible light snow or flurries
• Layer aggressively:
  • Thermal base + hoodie + insulated jacket
  • Jersey on top
  • Beanie, gloves, scarf
  • Waterproof boots
• Extras: hand w armers and a poncho

Parking Tips

• Secure official Broncos parking passes or nearby lots early
• Tailgating allowed directly behind/in front of your vehicle only
• No unauthorized vehicles (e.g., scooters)
• Tailgates must end 45 minutes before kickoff
• Follow rules closely to avoid ejection or ticket loss

Must-Have Tailgate Gear

• Portable grill (charcoal or propane allowed)
• Folding table and chairs
• Canopy (wind/snow protection)
• Cooler with ice
• Team flags or banners
• Bluetooth speaker
• Hand warmers
• Trash bags (leave no trace)
• Backup battery pack for phones

Food & Drink Ideas

• Burgers or sausage with green chile
• Chili, wings, or brisket
• Local beers (Coors, Great Divide)
• Hot toddies or spiked cider
• Shareable snacks (queso, sliders)

Games & Activities

• Cornhole, connect four, giant Jenga, football toss
• Group chants and photo ops at the Mile High Monument
• Portable TVs for early games
• Alumni and cheerleader appearances at VIP tailgates

Watching Elsewhere (If Not at the Stadium)

• Society Sports and Spirits — massive screens, rowdy crowd
• Tight End Bar — inclusive vibe, game audio
• Tom’s Watch Bar (near Coors Field) — upscale viewing
• Sportsbook Bar & Grill (Greenwood Village) — betting-friendly comfort food

Transportation

• RTD light rail from downtown/Union Station
• Rideshare drop zones
• Carpool if driving
• Avoid driving if drinking — plan ahead

Fan Culture

• High-altitude intensity and Orange Crush pride
• Loud, resilient, and playoff-hardened
• Family-friendly but electric atmosphere