Published October 28, 2021
Dear Students:
It is that time of year again: Michigan vs Michigan State football, and this year the rivalry game also coincides with Halloween. As our teams meet this weekend -- both with undefeated records -- we ask that you honor our 114-year-old historic rivalry by showing civility and respect for each other.
We want you to have the best fan experience this Saturday and a festive, fun and safe Halloween.
This year’s game will take place Oct. 30 in East Lansing. While we may cheer for different teams, it is most important that Spartans and Wolverines alike work together to ensure this weekend’s game is a safe, respectful and fun experience for all students and fans.
Fans from across the state and most of college football will be watching Saturday. We expect all of you will show sportsmanship and respect for others, for your universities and most importantly yourselves. Leave the rivalry on the field.
We all have a role to play in showing fans what it looks like to be part of world-renowned research institutions with dynamic athletic programs. Check out the video above on how you can do your part.
If you are attending the game, remember that masks are required indoors in all MSU buildings, including when in any indoor area of Spartan Stadium. This includes the concourses, restrooms, club areas and elevators. Also, make sure you are familiar with the most up-to-date rules and policies for Spartan Stadium, including the no-bag policy.
We encourage you to look out for each other and take a moment to review some tips for making this weekend fun, festive and free from harm.
- Make decisions around alcohol that maximize positive social outcomes and reduce negative consequences. For those that choose to drink, do so responsibly.
- Plan ahead for your transportation needs. Have a designated sober driver.
- If you are under 21, it is illegal to drink alcohol.
- Remember, when leaving designated tailgate areas, it is illegal to have an open container of alcohol on East Lansing public property (streets, sidewalks), even if you are 21.
- Low-risk alcohol and other drug use helps ensure that medical personnel and hospitals have the capacity to serve all the needs in the community. If needed, Michigan’s Medical Amnesty laws are in place to remove any perceived barriers to get help when someone is in danger.
- Be a positive fan. Avoid the use of foul language, obscene gestures, messages, and threats. Don't bring apparel or signs with profane or abusive language to the game. Cheer for your team, not against the other.
Here are some additional tips to remember as you celebrate Halloween.
- Choose Halloween costumes that demonstrate respect, avoid appropriating other cultures or promoting racial, cultural, gender or other stereotypes.
- If hosting an event, be considerate of your neighbors. Talk to them prior to your event and agree on how to communicate if issues come up.
- Control the noise level at events. It is unlawful to create, permit or continue to permit any noise that disturbs the health, peace or safety of others.
- Manage the size of your party (guests should not block sidewalks or streets).
- Leave drinks behind when you leave a party and use bathrooms not the bushes.
- Clean up promptly after your events to avoid receiving a citation.
Whatever the final score and whether you choose to celebrate Halloween, we maintain high expectations for our communities. Let’s all remain committed to representing our universities and our great state with class and mutual respect.
As always...Go Green and Go Blue!
Laura Blake Jones
Dean of Students
University of Michigan
Anthony T. Williams
Assistant Vice President for Student Rights and Responsibilities and Dean of Students
Michigan State University
Alan Haller
Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
Michigan State University
Warde J. Manuel
Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics
University of Michigan