Bankers & Bulldogs Tailgate Bash

We're bringing the spirit of a Georgia tailgate to Asheville for an afternoon packed with football, food, drinks, networking and plenty of fun. While we're still waiting on the official kickoff time for the highly anticipated Georgia vs. Oklahoma matchup, one thing is certain—the game will be on the big screens, and we'll have plenty going on to keep the party going from start to finish.

And this isn't your average tailgate.

We've brought together some of Asheville's most unique local talent to add a few unexpected touches to the afternoon.

Make It Personal
Want to take home a one-of-a-kind reminder of CONNECT 2026? Asheville artisan Rebecca Marlowe, founder of I Can Make That!, will be on-site creating personalized engraved glassware. Leave with a custom keepsake made just for you.

Get Your Doodle On
Local favorite The Doodle Dude, Mitch Capps, will bring his signature Cappstract Art to the party. Known for his one-of-a-kind artwork and personalized sketches, Mitch will be creating custom pieces for attendees throughout the afternoon.

Create Your CONNECT Keepsake
What's a great week in Asheville without a little something to remember it by? During the Tailgate Bash, you'll have the opportunity to create your own CONNECT 2026 keepsake canvas bag. This one-of-a-kind souvenir that tells the story of your week in Asheville. Stop by the table and receive a canvas bag featuring a CONNECT 2026 patch, and you'll have the opportunity to personalize it with up to three to four additional iron-on fun patches. Choose your favorites, add a little personality and create a keepsake you'll actually want to use long after CONNECT is over. 

Add great food, refreshing beverages, SEC football, spirited networking and you've got the makings of one heck of a tailgate.

Whether you're there to cheer on the Dawgs, create a custom keepsake, meet new friends or just enjoy a great afternoon with your CBA family, the Bankers & Bulldawgs Tailgate Bash is one CONNECT 2026 event you won't want to miss.

Get ready to eat, drink, cheer and Call the Dawgs!