Task: Bring college culture back to Facebook.

Tailgates are a huge part of college sports culture—and a gathering place for all fans to connect and share their passions. So we decided to throw the mother of all tailgates. Twice. In two different states. Over the same weekend.

We created the Facebook Fanzone, a new activation where Facebook shows up at college sports events. We launched at two of the biggest college football rivalry games: The Egg Bowl (Mississippi State vs. Ole Miss) and the Cascade Clash (Washington vs. Oregon).

On the event’s largest stage, we hosted the ultimate tailgate experience. The lineup featured "Commentators Commenting on Comments"—where the Shepmates and Kieran Hickey-Semple reacted to rivalry-driven Facebook posts—alongside interactive games pairing students with legends like Nate Robinson and Fletcher Cox.

Throughout the day, roaming reporters broadcasted live fan interviews to the big screen, while a football skills challenge showcased Oakley Meta Glasses. It was a high-energy, packed production at the season's premier tailgate.