Some traditions start with a cheer. At Ole Miss, one starts with trash cans. Early on the Friday before a home game, the university's Landscape Services team sets out thousands of trash cans and recycling bins, creating a red and blue display. The university calls it Trash Can Friday.
An AI editor wrote this article using the University of Mississippi traditions page.
Why fans get so excited about bins
It sounds funny until you see it. The Grove is a 10-acre park in the middle of campus, shaded by oaks, and the university calls it "the Holy Grail of tailgating sites." In my view, the red and blue cans are the first sign that a home game weekend has arrived.
Making the most of the Friday
- Go early: the university says the cans go out early on Friday.
- Take the photo: a red and blue display of trash cans is a fun picture to send friends who could not make the trip.
- Plan your spot: knowing where your group will set up makes Saturday morning much smoother.
Why black stands out in a red and blue Grove
On a weekend when the whole park is decorated in red and blue, a black jersey gives you contrast. It is easy for friends to find you, it pairs with almost anything, and it works for evening gatherings after the sun goes down.
The jersey
The Custom Ole Miss Rebels Jersey Name and Number Football Vapor Limited All Stitched Black Alternate puts your chosen name and number on a black Vapor Limited style. It comes in Men, Women and Youth options, with sizes from S to 3XL.
Ideas for the back of a Friday jersey
- Your tailgate crew's name: a nickname everyone recognizes, if it fits the name field.
- The number of years you have tailgated together: a fun one to update with a new jersey down the road.
- 10: a nod to the 10 acres of the Grove, or to Eli Manning's retired number, depending on who asks.
A weekend in three steps
Friday is setup and anticipation. Saturday morning brings the band at the Grove stage and the Walk of Champions. Then comes the stadium. A black jersey carries you through all three without looking out of place, and the name on the back makes it yours.
Small things, big feelings
It is easy to underestimate how much a simple ritual can mean. Trash Can Friday is a few thousand bins, but to me it is a fun reminder that the week is turning into a game weekend.
Trash Can Friday is the first stop on a full weekend of traditions. On Saturday, the team begins its Walk of Champions two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff, and right before the opening kickoff, fans lock arms and sway for Lock the Vaught.
See the Black Alternate custom jersey and be ready when the red and blue cans roll out.