Interesting Facts About College Bowl Games

Bowl games have been part of American tradition for more than a century, and WorldStrides is proud to be part of the excitement (in a really entertaining way!)

Here are a few of our favorite fun facts about college bowl games:

• The first bowl game was played in 1902, when Michigan defeated Stanford 49-0 in the Tournament East-West Football Game. Marching bands and college football also go way back. The University of Illinois is credited with performing the first marching field show in 1907.
• Perhaps the most over-the-top new tradition is the viral fan-favorite Pop-Tarts Bowl moment, where the winning team celebrates by taking a bite of the game’s edible mascot after it’s lowered into a giant toaster and “cooked!” 

• The Sugar Bowl's host city, New Orleans, transforms for the big event. The Sugar Bowl Parade, which kicks off the celebration, originally began as a night parade, and its classic French Quarter route is often considered the unofficial start of carnival season.  
• The AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s stadium in Memphis, Tennessee, is dedicated to veterans who fought in both World Wars and the Korean War.
• Until the 1950s, bowl games were all played on New Year’s Day. Today, the games are spread out over nearly a month.
• The term “bowl” doesn’t refer to trophy shapes. It comes from the Rose Bowl Stadium, which is shaped like, you guessed it, a bowl! The stadium is considered the prototype for many football stadiums around the country.
• The Holiday Bowl is sometimes called the “biggest little bowl game” due to its reputation for high-scoring, unpredictable finishes. Of the nearly 50 games played, almost half were in the final two minutes!
• The Alamo Bowl has a unique connection to its host city. The Alamodome sits within walking distance of the famous San Antonio River Walk. It has become tradition for the two competing teams to participate in the River Rally, where players, coaches, bands, and more float through downtown on decorated barges.  

WorldStrides is proud to play a part in the rich history of America’s college bowl games year after year. Start planning your group's experience with our Bowl Games and Parades.