Football fans in the family? Here’s how to watch the OSU marching band rehearsals absolutely free

While Columbus is full of great family-friendly options for fun, a lot of them–just like a lot of Ohio State Football excursions–aren’t cheap. But if you and the little ones are into football, there’s a way you can watch the Ohio State Marching Band totally free.

Beginning in late August, the so-called Best Damn Band in the Land holds rehearsals between 4:00-6:15 p.m., although the actual times may vary.

Rehearsals take place at Lincoln Tower Park, which is located at 1790 Canon Dr., directly behind Ohio Stadium.

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Additionally, those willing to brave gameday traffic can witness one of the band’s popular Skull Sessions. These sessions, which take place every home game two hours and 20 minutes before kickoff, involve the full band marching to St. John’s Arena. The band performs “Fanfare for a New Era,” before Buckeyes players and coaches enter to interact with the fans. Band members then run through their halftime program as a sort of final rehearsal (although it’s now more of an event in itself).

Alcohol, animals, recording equipment and more is prohibited from Skull Sessions. Make sure to check the full list of prohibited items before you attend.

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