CONSTRUCTION
Most of the remaining construction sites are not active on the weekends and traffic moves pretty well. There are no specific instructions to give for avoiding any local construction in Toledo, mostly because I am not aware of any.
PARKING
At any college, parking is challenging. In the past, I have only parked in Areas 8 & 9 as shown in the map. The north lots (Areas 10, 6, 4) are likely reserved for equipment trucks and such. Being a smaller competition this year, parking may not be as intense as it has been in the past. In the past, parking has been provided for free. I have not seen any announcements that this has changed.
Ticket prices have increased a little for this season. They are now $21 for Prelim’s and another $21 for Finals if these are purchased separately. If you want to attend both and save a few bucks, purchase the all-day pass for $31. Historically, Jenison makes it into finals, however, this cannot ever be guaranteed.
MERCHANDISE
Within the gates of the stadium there are tables of items being sold. They range from t-shirts and sweatshirts to buttons and patches. There are usually some other misc items as well. The University of Toledo will have a table there with some of their band members in case you have any questions about the school and their program.
TEMPERATURE
The weather forecast I saw for Toledo shows a high of 85, 70% humidity, and partly cloudy. Glass Bowl Stadium is very hot and provides very little opportunity for shade. Please dress appropriately and make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. The wind is expected to be only 7 mph, so it’s really just a breeze.
BETWEEN PRELIM'S & FINALS
After Prelim’s conclude and the bands are announced for Finals, you will be required to leave the stadium. You will also have to take your belongings with you as your seats cannot be saved for Finals. You do not have to move your car out of the parking lot as this is not usually required. The gates open back up at 5:45. The first band will take the field at 6:45. Anticipate returning in time for the first performance because it can take awhile before we are informed of Jenison's time slot.
FOOD DESTINATIONS
There is only an hour gap between open gates at the stadium. It might be a good idea to tailgate or picnic at your car, but if you prefer to leave the parking lot you’re going to have to drive a bit. University of Toledo is not surrounded by restaurants within easy walking distance. So, where to go?
Westgate is 3 miles away and has:
Popeye's, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Chipotle, Jersey Mike’s, and others.
Franklin Park Mall is 4 miles away and has:
Olive Garden, Red Robin, Dave & Busters, Tim Horton's, Panera, Chick-fil-A, IHOP, and others.
Downtown Toledo is 5 miles away and has:
Spaghetti Warehouse, Maumee Bay Pub, Ye Olde Durty Bird, and others.
Perrysburg (east side) is 14 miles away and has:
Cracker Barrel, Chipotle, Panera,Chick-fil-A, IHOP, Chili’s, Sonic, Five Guys, and others.
If you have any additional questions, the following link will take you to the website for the Regional. https://marching.musicforall.org/event/toledo19/