When attending an event at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, one of the most frequently asked questions is: can you bring drinks into the stadium? The quick answer is that outside food and drinks are prohibited at Red Bull Arena. However, there are some exceptions and nuances to be aware of.
Can you bring any outside drinks into Red Bull Arena?
The general policy at Red Bull Arena is that no outside food or beverages are allowed into the stadium. This is a standard policy at many major sports venues and is intended to encourage patrons to purchase concessions inside the arena. This helps support the venue and event organizers.
However, certain exceptions are made for medical or dietary reasons. Fans are permitted to bring in factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are 20 oz. or less in size. Other beverages like coffee, tea, juice, etc. are not permitted. Any liquids brought in are subject to inspection by security.
Can you bring alcohol into the stadium?
No, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited at Red Bull Arena. This includes beer, wine, liquor, or any other alcoholic drinks. The venue has liquor licenses that allow alcohol sales within the stadium and arena area only. Trying to sneak in outside alcohol or underage drinking is illegal and can get you ejected or arrested.
Are there any workarounds to bring drinks in?
While outside food and drinks are not allowed, some fans try creative ways to sneak beverages into stadiums. This is not recommended and can lead to confiscation or ejection if caught. However, some common smuggling methods include:
- Filling empty plastic water bottles with liquor then resealing the cap.
- Pouring vodka or rum into plastic pouches and hiding them in your pockets.
- Hollowing out bread loaves and filling them with cans or bottles of beer.
- Putting wine or soda into a Thermos or Yeti cup with a lid.
- Stashing juice boxes or pouches in a handbag and hoping security doesn’t check.
Again, these methods are against policy and illegal. Security at Red Bull Arena does check bags and use metal detectors, so the risk of getting caught is high.
Are there any exceptions for medical needs?
If you require certain beverages for medical reasons, exceptions can be made. Things like juice or non-alcoholic drinks for diabetes or hydration may be permitted with proper documentation from your physician. You’ll need to present a doctor’s note at the gate explaining your condition and medical need.
Can you bring any food or snacks into the stadium?
Just as with drinks, outside food is prohibited at Red Bull Arena. No food, candy, snacks, or other consumables can be brought into the venue from outside. Once again, medical exemptions can be made with a doctor’s note. Be prepared to purchase all food and snacks from concession stands inside.
Are there restrictions on drinks purchased inside the stadium?
Drinks that are purchased within Red Bull Arena are allowed into seating areas in open containers. However, if you leave an event and want to re-enter, you cannot bring opened drinks back in with you. Any open containers must be finished or disposed of before exiting and re-entering.
Can you exit and re-enter the stadium?
Red Bull Arena does allow event attendees to exit and re-enter the venue, as long as you have your ticket stub. To re-enter, you will go through security screening again. This is when any opened drinks must be finished or tossed before going back to your seat. Unopened drinks and food can be brought back in.
Are there designated areas inside to consume alcohol?
Yes, there are designated “Beer Gardens” inside Red Bull Arena where age-verified fans can purchase and consume alcohol. Attendees cannot bring alcohol into seating areas from Beer Gardens, however. Alcohol sales and consumption is contained within the licensed Beer Garden zones.
Can you drink in the parking lot?
Drinking is prohibited in the parking lots at Red Bull Arena. However, many fans tailgate before and after events which involves alcohol. Technically open container and public intoxication laws apply in parking lots. But they are generally only enforced if there are problems or disturbances.
Are children allowed to bring drinks?
Children are held to the same rules regarding outside drinks. Factory sealed bottles of water 20oz or less are permitted. Juice boxes or pouches are also allowed for kids and do not need to be sealed. Again, these drinks may be inspected at security checkpoints before entering.
Can you bring drinks in a cooler?
No, coolers and similar large containers are not permitted inside Red Bull Arena. This is to prevent concealed alcohol or other prohibited items from being snuck in. Only small personal bags, purses, etc. are allowed after inspection.
Do the rules change for special events or concerts?
The venue’s standard food and beverage policies apply for all events at Red Bull Arena. So no outside drinks, alcohol, etc. Rules may be a bit looser for certain concert events in terms of enforcement, but the official policies remain intact. Check the event details for any special entry procedures or restrictions.
Do other sports stadiums have similar policies?
Yes, generally these rules are very common at professional sports stadiums and arenas. Restrictions on outside food and drink help event organizers control the experience and profit from in-house concessions. Some facilities may be a bit more relaxed, such as allowing sealed bottled water of any size. But the overall concept remains the same nationwide.
Conclusion
At Red Bull Arena, outside food and beverages are prohibited as a general policy, with medical exemptions possible. Drinks purchased inside the stadium are allowed in seating areas. While some fans try clever tricks to sneak drinks in, this is not recommended and can result in ejection if caught. The venue maintains control over all food and alcohol sales within the stadium. Understanding and following the drink policies ensures an enjoyable experience for all attendees.