Mary Pintea – Staff Writer
mvp5879@psu.edu

Photo Credit: Min Xian / WPSU

Penn State’s Beaver Stadium is joining some of its Big 10 cohorts in authorizing the sale of
alcohol in their stadiums.
Though alcohol sales aren’t a new concept for the stadium—club and suite areas have been
permitted alcohol since 2016—Happy Valley has certainly become happier. Currently, the
stadium has only approved beer sales. As it stands, 16 oz domestic cans of beer will cost $10,
while specialty cans and bottles will cost $12. Fans will only be able to purchase two beers at a
time, must have a valid form of identification, and will be required to wear a wristband
indicating that they are 21 or older. All sales will end after the third quarter.
With the introduction of alcohol sales has also come an addition of approximately 300 staff
members that will operate sales, enforce rules and restrictions, and oversee the crowd.
Penn State did not consult with State College or College township municipalities, nor Centre
Lifeline EMS before August, when the university unveiled their plans publicly. The overarching
goal in authorizing sales is to prevent crime, dangerous drinking, and reduce the chances of
underage drinking. Approximately one-fifth of the LifeLink EMS’ calls during the first week of
the semester are related to alcohol—which is quite the large number. The municipalities and
EMS services are not as concerned with the actual sales, but rather the large number of personnel
needed to ensure that they are operating smoothly.
It is unclear when Beaver Stadium will begin selling alcohol, but it is in the works for future
games this season.