This year’s Harvard-Yale game is sure to be full of novelty since the last home game of the rivalry was at Fenway Park six years ago. Unlike last year in New Haven, Harvard students will have the luxury of sleeping in their own beds on the eve of the big game, only a short walk away from the tailgating and game festivities. But even on home territory, you might need some tips and tricks to make sure the weekend goes smoothly, especially since few people on campus remember the last game at Harvard.
We have gathered the best suggestions of how to make the most of your weekend—and what you should surely avoid.
Do:
- Have a White Claw or Natty Light for the ultimate breakfast of champions. We recommend a “can cleanse” for the duration of Friday and Saturday, a diet of only alcoholic liquids. It is sort of like a juice cleanse, but we guarantee this regime to be much more fun.
- Get less than two hours of sleep the night before. This one is simple: less sleep equals more fun. You will be able to catch up on sleep over Thanksgiving break. Harvard Yale only happens once a year.
- Wear makeup that won’t rub off overnight. Last night’s mascara is good enough for the tailgate! All you must do is paste on a red H tattoo and you will be good to go. This will save you valuable time in starting the pregame.
- Wake up feeling more drunk than when you went to bed. If you don’t get the spins when your head hits the pillow Friday night, you’re not doing it right.
- Hide a handle somewhere in the field. Drinking will be limited at the tailgate this year, so it’s important to prepare by hiding your beverages. I recommend a bush.
Don’t:
- Blue Bike home from the Friday night festivities. Objectively, biking is the most efficient mode of transportation in Boston, but if you have been out celebrating, it’s best to play it safe and stay away from the bikes. Walk or take the T. This will be sure to save you $100 by avoiding an Uber.
- “Don’t be the designated driver for eight people. You will deeply regret it.” —Jack Chilson ’25
- Let anyone borrow your Yuck Fale hat or another quirky accessory. No matter how cute they are, do not fold on this one. Especially if they go to Yale, you will not get it back.
- Forget your Yuck Fale hat.
- Post anything on social media with the caption, “Yuck Fale.” It’s overused. You’ll be better off thinking of another pun for your caption.
Alexandra Dorofeev ’25 (alexandradorofeev@college.harvard.edu) will be taping her Yuck Fale hat to her head.