Beer, wine to be sold in new U of M stadium’s suites

The University of Minnesota will allow alcohol sales in suite areas of the new TCF Bank Stadium and other campus venues.

The University’s Board of Regents voted Friday on the matter, according to media reports. The policy will allow beer and wine sales in luxury, restricted-seating areas and special events rooms at the new on-campus stadium, which will hold its first home football game Sept. 12, 2009.

The new policy doesn't allow for fans in the general seating area to buy alcohol. Because Gopher football games had been held at the Metrodome for the past 26 years, fans, including college students of drinking age, had been able to purchase alcohol at concession stands.

Alcohol will also be available for purchase in suites at Mariucci Arena and Williams Arena under the new policy approved by Regents.