Fall semester means many things for a large university. Students are back on campus, classes are back in session and a new season of football begins.

Regardless of whether or not you consider yourself a football fan, game days have a way of bringing the campus community together on a common ground.

From the stadium to personal residences, Campustown offers numerous places to watch the Fighting Illini play.

For many, the spectator’s top choice will be Memorial Stadium. Students can buy season ticket passes and sit in the Block I section to cheer on their team. For many, the atmosphere of Memorial Stadium simply cannot be beat.

For those who still want to watch the game in a more social atmosphere, campus bars and restaurants are always a popular choice. Since the bar entry age at most bars on campus is 19, a wide range of students choose to wake up early for pregame festivities and then stay throughout the game. Most sororities and fraternities participate in the tradition of “block” where chapters pair up and rent areas at popular bars on campus such as Joe’s Brewery, The Red Lion or KAM’S. Block starts when the bars open, and the Illini spirit never runs out.

Other bars such as Murphy’s Pub and Legends Bar and Grill offer a full menu as well as many TVs to watch the game.

All campus bars tend to fill up very early on game day, so it’s best to arrive early to find a good spot to watch the game, or beat the crowd when ordering food.

Besides bars or the actual stadium, many chose to watch the Illini play in the comfort of their own home. Apartment viewing parties are always popular. Most University housing floors have common areas with large TVs as well.

With the never-ending options of where to watch the game, Saturday mornings and afternoon on campus are always guaranteed to provide good times and lasting memories that will last for years to come.

Kayla is a senior in Media. She can be reached at [email protected].