Fresno State fans will once again be able to purchase beer at football games at Bulldog Stadium starting this fall. The change results from Executive Order 1109, a new California State University system-wide policy that allows each of the 23 CSU campuses to decide whether to reinstate the sale and service of alcohol at university intercollegiate athletic events.
Alcohol was last sold at Fresno State football games during the 2005 season, before a previous CSU executive order initiated a ban on sales in 2006.
This change in CSU policy, which was announced June 30, is the result of an examination of trends and practices at numerous comparable higher education institutions, as well as an evaluation of existing practices involving the sale and service of alcoholic beverages at athletic events held at third-party venues or facilities owned or operated by CSU auxiliaries.
“After reviewing the new policy and taking into consideration fan requests, we have decided to implement a responsible and moderate approach to reinstating beer sales at Fresno State intercollegiate athletic events,” said Debbie Adishian-Astone, Fresno State’s vice president for administration.
Fresno State’s operational plan for Bulldog Stadium includes two beer garden areas (see red shaded areas on map above) — one on the east side near the Red Lot and one in the northwest grass area. All customers will be required to show identification and will need wrist bands prior to being served. There will be a two-item limit per sale. Patrons will be permitted to return to their seats with beverages to watch the game. Beer sales will be cut off at the end of the third quarter.
“To ensure the continuation of Fresno State’s fan-friendly, family environment, we will have adequate security presence as well as signage and video messages that will promote the importance of responsible drinking,” Adishian-Astone said.
A partnership with Associated Students Inc. will focus on educational campaigns and programs that promote responsible behavior.
The Fresno State Athletics Department is working with Pardini’s, its concessionaire; the Fresno State Police Department; and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control to ensure all regulations are met and that each server completes the required LEAD (Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs) training. A new designated vehicle pick-up area will be established for services like Lyft and Uber on game days.
Fresno State is committed to creating a safe and healthy learning environment for the campus community and the Red Wave fan base, Adishian-Astone said. The operational plan will be reviewed annually.
