The Citywide Tailgate — a benefit for United Way of North Central Mississippi — returns to Starkville Friday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. UWNCM, in conjunction with the Greater Starkville Development Partnership’s New South Weekends, hosts the community fundraiser.
With the purchase of a $5 wristband, attendees can enjoy food at any of the multiple tailgating locations in downtown Starkville and on Russell Street, Academy Road, Hospital Road, and more. Last year’s event hosted 23 tailgate sites at which 40 local businesses and restaurants welcomed everyone to enjoy lunch in the name of supporting local charitable organizations.
Adding to the excitement of the day is the annual tailgating competition. Awards given are Best in Zone (one in each of five designated zones), Best New Tailgater and Best Citywide Tailgater.
Toby Steed with the 2018 award-winning East Mississippi Lumber Co. said, “We had a blast! It was very humbling to win Best New Tailgater last year. We really enjoyed interacting with our customers and meeting everyone. We are excited to have Weber Grills joining us this year and hope to have an even better Citywide Tailgate for all.”
Those with wristbands can also take part in Retailgating Delight Friday. Participating retailers will offer a 10 percent discount to all shoppers wearing a Citywide Tailgate wristband. Discounts will be good for the entire day.
Paige Watson, special events and projects coordinator for GSDP, said, “We are so excited about this year’s event, and the Partnership is proud to once again include UWNCM’s Citywide Tailgate and Retailgating Delight on this year’s New South Weekend’s schedule.”
Get wristbands
Wristbands are available in Starkville at Bancorp South, University Drive; Regions Bank, University Drive; What’s For Dinner, Academy Road; Campus Book Mart, Lee Boulevard; and Prographics in the Vowell’s Shopping Center.
Helping make this event successful are community sponsors BankFirst; James “Cubby” Harris Painting Co.; Rob Roberson Law Firm; Watkins, Ward & Stafford–Starkville PLLC, Certified Accountants; The Partnership; and Starkville Daily News.
“It is events of this caliber and strong neighbors like our participants, our sponsors, and our volunteers that allow UWNCM to bring people together for the cause of building a community better for everyone,” said Candy Crecink, UWNCM executive director.
Sponsorships and volunteer opportunities are available at unitedwayncm.com.
For more information, contact the United Way office at 662-323-3830 or email [email protected].
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