Home›Teams›Ohio State›Traditions
🦅 TraditionsOhio State

Ohio State Traditions

Ohio Stadium · Columbus, OH

← Ohio State
← Seating|Traditions|
🏈
The Traditions
Ohio State's traditions are deeply woven into the fabric of college football. The most iconic is Script Ohio, performed by the Ohio State University Marching Band — 'The Best Damn Band in the Land' — where a sousaphone player dots the 'i' in a cursive 'Ohio' formation to deafening cheers.
🎺
Pregame Rituals
Between the third and fourth quarters, the entire stadium sways and sings along to 'Hang On Sloopy,' an unofficial state rock anthem. The Skull Session, held at St.
📣
In-Game Moments
John Arena roughly two hours before kickoff, is a free pep rally featuring the marching band and team that every visitor should attend. Watch for the team's Buckeye Walk into the stadium as well.
⚡
PRO TIP
Arrive at St. John Arena 90 minutes before kickoff for the Skull Session — it's free, loud, and the perfect warm-up.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
* Affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
← Back to Ohio StateAll Teams →

Frequently Asked Questions — Traditions

What are the most famous Ohio State traditions?

Ohio State has a rich set of game day traditions built up over decades of college football. From pregame walk-outs to halftime rituals, the experience at Ohio Stadium is shaped as much by what happens around the game as the game itself.

What chants do Ohio State fans use?

Ohio State fans have signature chants and crowd responses that are part of the in-stadium experience. New visitors are often surprised by how quickly the crowd syncs up on key plays — especially third downs and touchdowns.

Is there a pregame show at Ohio Stadium?

Most programs including Ohio State feature pregame band performances, team walk-outs, and student section traditions before kickoff. Arriving 60–90 minutes early lets you experience the full pregame atmosphere at Ohio Stadium.