Jacksonville Jaguars

Even if you have ZERO interest in football (or sports in general), you must experience at least one pro football game at Everbank Stadium. It's your duty as a Jacksonville resident! Plus, it's kind of exciting to be a part of a professional sporting event with the pyrotechnics, 9 year olds belting out the National Anthem, and "cheerleaders" who slightly resemble drunk strippers.

If you can score free tickets, even better! That's what happened to Ryan and I this past Friday for the pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons. The game started at 8, we got there about 7:30-ish, with plenty of time to get a few drinks and snacks before we found our seats (Practically nosebleed section, but they were free, so I'm not complaining!)

Here are a few tips, should you decide to do your Jacksonville duty and attend a game:

1. Parking is $20-$30. Do yourself a favor and take the shuttle! Prices range from $7-$12 and includes free parking and the calm that comes from not having to nearly run over hundreds of people who do not understand traffic laws. They have pick up locations downtown, at the beaches, Southside, Mandarin, and Orange Park. If you are going to fork over the money for parking, go to the one with the bar :) You'll see it when you get there!

2. Beer is $8 for a 20 oz cup, plan accordingly.

3. Make your arteries hate you, get some cheddar/caramel popcorn. I got regular popcorn and the regret stays with me to this very day.

4. Dress comfortably! Chances are that you will be walking quite a bit and those 10 inch heels will probably murder you. Bonus points if you wear teal, black or gold. Super bonus points if you wear Jaguar gear.

5. People watch. Be prepared to be amazed by the variety of people that come out for Jaguar games.

6. Enjoy the show :) Also, try to stay for the entire game. Jacksonville fans seem to be in a hurry to leave. Sure, it can be boring to see your team being beaten or playing like highschool football players but when they pull ahead in the 4th quarter, you're going to be pissed that you missed the only exciting part of the game.