If you are relocating to Columbus, or anywhere in Ohio, it will not take long to notice how deeply Ohio State University (OSU) football is woven into life in the Buckeye State. On fall Saturdays, scarlet and gray seem to be everywhere as friends, families, and neighbors gather for games, tailgates, and watch parties.
Part of the excitement comes from the program itself. Ohio State has a long history of national championships and consistently attracts and develops top-tier players, many of whom continue to the NFL.
You do not need to arrive as a football fan to join in the excitement. For newcomers, a fall football Saturday offers an easy introduction to some of the traditions and shared experiences that help give Columbus its personality.
More Than Football
Ohio Stadium, affectionately known as the Horseshoe or simply the ’Shoe, gets its name from its original horseshoe-shaped design, which remains one of the stadium’s defining features. The stadium is at the center of game day, but some of Ohio State’s best-known traditions are not football-related.
The Ohio State University Marching Band, better known as The Best Damn Band in the Land (TBDBITL), is an attraction in its own right. Its famous Script Ohio formation, including the tradition of dotting the “i,” is one of the university’s most recognizable symbols.
Another game day favorite is TBDBITL’s performance of “Hang On Sloopy,” with fans spelling O-H-I-O with their arms. Brutus Buckeye, Ohio State’s larger-than-life mascot, is a familiar and spirited presence at games and events.
EA Columbus Guide Wendy Giambrone recommends attending Skull Session at St. John Arena before a home game. “The Ohio State Marching Band hosts a free, family-friendly pep rally that is open to the public,” she says. Fans can see TBDBITL perform, hear brief remarks from the football team, and get a preview of the band’s pregame and halftime music. Check the current schedule before you go, and plan to arrive early.
Experience Game Day Like a Local
If you are heading to campus, give yourself plenty of time for traffic and parking. Arriving early also gives you a chance to walk around campus and take in the Big Ten atmosphere before kickoff.
Tailgating is a big part of the experience. If a friend, neighbor, coworker or business contact invites you to one, take them up on it. It is an easy way to experience game day and, for someone new to town, make connections.
Tickets are available through the Ohio State Athletics Ticket Office and secondary marketplaces, with prices typically higher for the most anticipated games.
And before you go, pick up some scarlet and gray spirit wear. One helpful tip—avoid wearing blue and yellow on game day. Those are the colors of Ohio State’s archrival, the University of Michigan, and Buckeye fans are very likely to notice.
The rivalry has traditions of its own. During the week leading up to the Michigan game, look for red X’s covering the letter “M” on signs around campus in a playful show of Buckeye spirit.
Another Ohio tradition comes in the form of buckeyes, chocolate-and-peanut-butter treats made to resemble the nut of the buckeye tree, Ohio’s state tree. They are a favorite at bakeries, parties and game day gatherings across the state.
Experience Ohio State Football Without a Game Ticket
You can still experience plenty of Buckeye tradition without sitting in the stands. Attend Skull Session, join a watch party, explore campus, or take an Ohio Stadium tour on non-game days.
EA Columbus Guide and OSU alum Erin Mattis is a fan of the stadium tours and notes that the ’Shoe is used for more than football. She shares that the stadium has hosted special events such as “Grapes at the Gridiron,” a wine tasting held throughout the venue, as well as a Topgolf event where guests teed off from different locations throughout the stadium.
Finding Your Place in a New Community
Relocating is about more than finding the right home, school or commute. Part of settling in is discovering the traditions that make a place feel familiar.
You might start by going to an Ohio State football game, discover you love watching TBDBITL, or find yourself at a neighbor’s watch party donning scarlet and gray. Before long, the traditions may feel less like something you are observing and more like something you are part of, right down to answering “O-H!” with “I-O!”
At Executive Arrangements, we help new hires and their families settle into their new community by helping them cultivate relationships. Think of us as community consultants and network experts. Learn how Executive Arrangements helps candidates considering a relocation. Contact us online or call at 216.231.9311.
