December 2023
This game was extra special for me because my father’s family is all from Philly and I grew up a Philadelphia Eagles fan even though I was raised in Arizona. It wasn’t until I met and married my husband that I became a devoted Arizona Cardinals fan (funny how both teams are birds, right?). This matchup at Lincoln Financial Field was a full-circle moment, and to make it even more meaningful, we went to the game with my cousins who are lifelong Eagles fans.
Before Game Day
We arrived in Philadelphia a few days early, since this was a New Year’s Eve game, and we wanted to spend some time with family in West Chester, just outside the city. We spent the weekend catching up and exploring the area, enjoying a few amazing dinners along the way.
If you’re ever in West Chester, I highly recommend checking out The Social and Kooma Fusion. The Social offers Cajun-inspired dishes and crafted cocktails, we tried the Jambalaya Pasta and Andouille Meatloaf, and both were outstanding. Kooma Fusion is an Asian fusion and sushi spot with an incredible Sashimi Deluxe and creative rolls; the Chunky Tuna Roll is a must-try!
Game Day – Cardinals vs. Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field
Game day in Philadelphia was everything you’d expect – passionate fans, electric energy, and a sea of green as far as the eye could see. Being a December game, it was pretty chilly for us Arizona folks, but the excitement and atmosphere easily made up for it.
We kicked off the morning by tailgating in the parking lots outside Lincoln Financial Field, which is located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, surrounded by Citizens Bank Park and Wells Fargo Center. The setup is ideal with massive lots filled with die-hard fans, tents, grills, music, and more. Eagles fans are known for being some of the most spirited in the NFL, and they absolutely live up to that reputation!
We joined the pregame festivities with WaWa subs, hot coffee in hand, and even got to chat with a few friendly (and hilarious) Eagles fans who were happy to talk football, tease us about being Cardinals fans, and even shared a beer or two. The smell of cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and grilled sausages filled the air, and the crowd energy was infectious, singing the “Fly Eagles Fly” fight song every chance they got.
If you’re planning to tailgate at Lincoln Financial Field, know that fans start arriving as soon as the lots open, about five hours before kickoff. The Jetro Lot (Lot M) is one of the most famous, known for wild setups, music, and food trucks. There’s also the K Lot, which has a more family friendly vibe. It’s is well organized and a lively pregame scene, passionate but welcoming if you show respect and good sportsmanship.
Inside Lincoln Financial Field
Once inside The Linc, we were blown away by how beautiful and modern the stadium is. The views of the field are excellent from nearly everywhere, and the stadium is clean, easy to navigate, and full of great food options, from Philly favorites like Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab Fries to local craft beers and cheesesteaks.
The energy in the stands was unbelievable. Eagles fans are loud, loyal, and deeply passionate, and it made for an exciting atmosphere and experience. This game was extra emotional because it marked Arizona’s new Head Coach Jonathan Gannon’s first return to Philadelphia after serving as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator the year before. The intensity was high, but the Cardinals stayed strong and in the end, Arizona pulled off the win!
Standing in Lincoln Financial Field, surrounded by roaring fans, watching the Cardinals beat the Eagles made for an unforgettable day.
Final Thoughts
Even though I have deep roots as a Philly fan, cheering for the Cardinals in Eagles territory was an incredible experience. The tailgating culture is top-notch, the stadium experience is first-class, and the city’s passion for football is unmatched.
If you’re planning a Cardinals road trip to Philadelphia, come prepared for cold weather, high energy, and an unforgettable game day. Philly fans are tough and passionate, grab a cheesesteak, and enjoy every minute of it.
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