Detailed Washington Commanders Tailgate Guide for 2026

The Washington Commanders have some of the longest-running tailgating traditions of any NFL team. Washington, D.C., football fans have shown up to tailgate since nearly the start of the National Football League. Below, we tell you how and where you can tailgate at Northwest Field for a Commanders game. Just keep reading.

In this blog, we detail Washington Commanders tailgate rules, parking, and more. We also include how to get cheap Washington Commanders tickets with no service fees. This tailgate guide is for everyone, regardless of whether you’re an avid tailgater or just curious about Commanders tailgating.

Also, check out our Washington Commanders seating chart to help you find the best seat at Commanders Field.

Where are the Washington Commanders Tailgate Lots?

The Washington Commanders have dedicated season-long parking lots for permit holders. However, there are some lots open to the general public, provided they have a game-day parking permit. In these lots, tailgating is encouraged.

Washington Commanders tailgating lots open 4 hours before kickoff. You can tailgate in all Commanders Field parking lots; however, the Commanders encourage fans to use the RedZone lots because there’s more space.

Some of the most popular spots are the AAA Ultimate Fan Zone located in the pavilion right next to the field and, of course, the RedZone areas.

Washington Commanders Parking Map

Washington Commanders Tailgating Rules

It’s important to follow Commanders’ tailgating rules to avoid getting kicked out and losing tailgating privileges. Below is a condensed list of Commanders’ tailgating rules. Find more detailed tailgating rules on the official website under the “Tailgating Policy.” It’s also important to follow the “Code of Conduct” to maintain peace regarding tailgating.

Washington Commanders Tailgating Rules and Prohibited Items

• Use of an empty parking space for tailgating is permitted only in designated areas
• Use of an empty parking space for tailgating is not permitted in the Platinum Lots
• When parking, park your car in one space only and between the white lines
• Parking permits are to be used for cars only
• Be considerate of other guests’ vehicles
• Keep all aisles clear
• Throw out trash in proper receptacles
• Prior to entering Commanders Field, please extinguish all flames and grills

How To Get a Washington Commanders Parking Pass

Buying a Washington Commanders parking permit is fairly simple on TickPick. All you have to do is add a Commanders parking pass to your ticket purchase. Click the orange button below the seating map to see parking pass options.

Unofficial Washington Commanders Tailgating

Tailgating is pretty easy and open to Commanders fans. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed tailgate option, there are always local bars packed with fans ready to cheer their team on. Especially since this team has generations of fans.

Washington Commanders Bars

A great option to tailgate and watch a Commanders game without having to head out to the stadium is at a local bar. D.C. has lots of bars ready to cheer on their team, but the stadium is a little outside of the city. There are still options! For example, TGI Fridays in Largo is the closest to the stadium. Jasper’s and Applebee’s are also nearby.

Of course, the closer you get to D.C. proper, the more local sports bars you’ll find. Some popular Commanders bars include Big Board, Stadium Sports, The Game, and Penn Quarter.

Get Cheap Washington Commanders Tickets

Our hope is that after reading through this Washington Commanders tailgate guide, you’re ready to buy football game day tickets! At TickPick, we have Washington Commanders tickets with no hidden fees. In addition, we’ve got sold-out Commanders tickets for last-minute NFL games.

Plus, new users get $10 off. Therefore, sign up or download the TickPick app to redeem. You’ll easily be able to track Commanders’ game prices using our Flex Feature within the app. It’s that simple.

Get Washington Commanders Tickets