Tailgating return could ‘reignite’ Regina’s tourism and hospitality

The province’s plan to bring tailgating back to Rider game days is drawing praise across Regina’s business and tourism sectors, with local leaders calling it a long-awaited win for fans and the city’s economy.

The change, announced in this week’s Speech from the Throne, will officially allow pre-game tailgating at Mosaic Stadium starting in 2026. The idea of sanctioned fan gatherings outside the stadium has been discussed for years, and many in the city say it’s about time it became a reality.

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Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) District CEO Rick Bennett said the decision represents more than a policy change; it’s a signal that Regina is ready to re-embrace large-scale community celebration.

“I couldn’t have been happier,” Bennett said. “That just creates a more vibrant community that helps every aspect of the REAL District as well as the Riders.”

Bennett said giving fans a legal, organized space to tailgate will bring people to the grounds earlier on game days, boosting sales for food trucks, vendors, and nearby businesses. He believes it will also help strengthen the connection between the team and its supporters, while making Mosaic Stadium a more dynamic entertainment hub.

“This is a really big moment for the team here at REAL, who’ve worked hard in a period of uncertainty,” he said. “It’s about reigniting the passion and purpose of what we’re doing.”

Bennett said the announcement adds to the growing optimism within Regina’s live-event industry, which has been regaining momentum since pandemic disruptions. He points to recent concerts, sports events, and festivals hosted at the REAL District as examples of a community eager to gather again.

Tourism Regina’s Jennifer Johnson, who also serves as the city’s deputy manager for communications and tourism, said the new rules will enhance the overall visitor experience and help extend travellers’ stays.

“We’ve seen tailgating be successful in other Canadian cities,” Johnson said. “It just adds another element of fun and excitement to Rider game days, which are already some of the best events we host all year.”

Johnson said many fans already travel from around Saskatchewan and even across provincial and international borders to attend Rider games. By offering more to do before and after kickoff, she said visitors will have more reason to spend additional time in Regina.

“People will come from further away and hopefully stay for longer because of that added element,” she said. “Anything that extends the visitor’s stay in Regina is good for our city and our economy.”

She adds that the return of tailgating complements a broader trend of major events helping to re-energize Regina’s downtown and hospitality industry. Alongside the concerts, conventions, and festivals planned in the coming year, she said the move shows a city ready to celebrate again.

Sandra Jackle, president and CEO of the Regina Hotel Association, said the legislation could have a ripple effect throughout the local tourism sector. While she doesn’t expect an immediate surge in bookings, she believes the enhanced experience will encourage more people to stay overnight on game weekends.

“If you can extend your experience at an event in any way, it could lead to more hotel stays,” Jackle said. “Rather than just driving in for the game and driving home right after, you might choose to book a hotel room, tailgate before, and do something later that night.”

Jackle said tailgating’s social draw could also benefit restaurants, pubs, and attractions across the city. She believes the extended game-day atmosphere will create new business opportunities for hospitality partners while strengthening Regina’s reputation as a welcoming, event-driven destination.

“There are so many cities that have tailgating before football games,” she said. “Anything that can make the event more fun and attractive is great for the city.”

Bennett said the legislation also demonstrates growing trust between provincial and municipal leaders in supporting Regina’s event economy.

“It’s another step toward turning the REAL District into a year-round destination for fans, families, and visitors,” he said.