If you think Ohio State game day is just about tailgates, beers, and football… you’re not wrong. But it’s also about TRADITION.
And one of the most incredible traditions happens hours before the Buckeyes even take the field. It’s seriously one of the most goosebump-inducing traditions in all of college football, and it takes place across the street from The Shoe at St. John Arena: the Skull Session.
This isn’t just a warmup for the Ohio State Marching Band (The Best Damn Band in the Land, for those keeping score). It’s an hour-long hype fest, a family-friendly pep rally, and honestly, one of the best ways to soak in Buckeye tradition — without spending a dime or stepping foot in the stadium.
What Exactly Is a Skull Session?
Originally, it started as a final rehearsal for the marching band before kickoff. But like everything else at Ohio State, it didn’t take long for it to turn into something much, much bigger.
Here’s how it goes down:
- Doors open 3 hours before kickoff (and trust me, they fill up fast. Seating is first-come, first-served).
- About 2 hours and 20 minutes before the game, the band marches into St. John Arena with their iconic ramp cadences. Instant chills.
- Once inside, you’ll get cheers from each section, a quick word from Coach Ryan Day and a Buckeye player, and then…the band lets it rip with their pregame and halftime shows, giving you a sneak peek of the day’s music before anyone in the Shoe hears it.
- And of course, they finish with “Across the Field” to send fans out ready to lose their voices at the game.
The best part? It’s completely free.
Why You Should Go (Even If You’re Not a Die-Hard Ohio State fan)
Look, you don’t have to bleed scarlet and gray to enjoy this. Skull Session is:
- Perfect for families. If you’re not into the rowdy tailgate scene, this is a wholesome, high-energy alternative.
- A tradition factory. Ohio State is known for its rituals (Script Ohio, Carmen Ohio, etc.), and Skull Sessions are right up there with the best of them.
- Pure adrenaline. The sound of the band echoing through St. John? That bass drum thundering in your chest? A chills-inducing speech from Coach Day? Unreal.
- Accessible. Can’t make it to Columbus? The whole thing is livestreamed on the Ohio State News YouTube channel, with highlights uploaded every Monday.
My First Skull Session (aka When I Knew I Wanted to Be a Buckeye)
I’ll never forget my first one. My brother was a freshman at Ohio State, and I was just a lowly sophomore in high school tagging along. The energy in St. John was electric, the music was deafening, and when the football players walked in with Coach Urb… well, let’s just say I left that arena pretty sure I knew where I wanted to go to college.
That’s the magic of a Skull Session. It’s not just about football or music — it’s about being swept up in a wave of Buckeye spirit so powerful it can literally change the trajectory of your life.
How to Make It Part of Your Game Day
- Get there early. Doors open 3 hours before kickoff, and if you want a decent seat, you’ll want to line up at least a little before that.
- Bring the whole crew. Kids, parents, friends… it’s an all-ages affair.
- Stick around after. You’ll spill out of St. John already fired up, just in time to head toward the stadium or your favorite game-day hangout (here are our favorites)
The Bottom Line
A Skull Session is more than a pregame concert. It’s an Ohio State tradition that’s pure Buckeye soul. Whether it’s your first time in Columbus or your hundredth, you owe it to yourself to experience the energy, the music, and the chills that only TBDBITL can deliver.
So next game day, skip one round of beers (or just shotgun them) and head into St. John Arena instead. Your vocal cords (and your Buckeye spirit) will thank you.
Attention Columbus Business Owners!
We built the Step Out advertising program for local businesses that want to get in front of locals in Central Ohio — people actively looking for places to eat, shop, and explore.
Curious if we’re a good fit for your business?
👉 Learn about our audience
Already thinking, “This sounds perfect for us”?
👉 Learn more about our ads