Updated at: 02-08-2023 - By: John Lau

Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just here for the party, one question often lingers – how much does beer cost at the Super Bowl? In 2023 alone, concession prices spiked as high as $17 for premium beers.

This blog post peels back the layers of pricing at America’s biggest sporting event and offers insider tips to help you save on your favorite brews. So get ready, we’re diving into an ocean of hops, barley and dollars!

The Cost of Beer at the Super Bowl

How Much Is Beer At The Super Bowl

Beer prices at the Super Bowl can be quite steep, with current prices averaging around $17 per serving.

Current prices

Super Bowl 2023 made headlines not just for the action on the field, but also for the soaring concession prices. Beer at this premium event did not come cheap, with tall boy beers attracting price tags of $16 and $17 for domestic and premium brands respectively.

Even a regular draught beer came in at a hefty $16 – that’s over six times what you’d pay for a can of Bud Light at an average convenience store! Not to be outdone, hot dog prices were sky-high too, with each one setting fans back by approximately $12.75 according to estimates from Bookies.com.

Clearly, Super Bowl day isn’t just about cheering on your favorite team; it involves gulping down some expensive suds as well! The full-on sporting spectacle certainly comes with its fair share of wallet-thinning surprises.

Inflation’s effect on prices

Inflation has had a significant impact on the prices of beer at the Super Bowl. Over the years, as inflation rates have risen, so too have the costs of concessions, including beer. This means that what was once an affordable treat for football enthusiasts has become increasingly expensive.

For example, in Super Bowl 2023, the average price for a tall boy domestic beer was $16, and premium options reached $17 per serving. These inflated prices can make it challenging for fans to enjoy their favorite beverage without breaking the bank.

However, it’s important to note that not all stadiums follow this trend. Some teams recognize the financial burden these high prices place on their fans and opt for more reasonable pricing strategies.

Comparison to Regular NFL Games

How Much Is Beer At The Super Bowl (2)

Regular NFL games have beer prices that are often significantly lower than those at the Super Bowl, with various factors influencing the price difference.

Similarities and differences in beer prices

When comparing the cost of beer at the Super Bowl to regular NFL games, there are some striking similarities and differences.

Similarities Differences
The price of beer at both the Super Bowl and regular NFL games is significantly higher than at local convenience stores or supermarkets. Super Bowl beer prices are typically higher than those at regular NFL games. While a tall boy beer was priced at $16 for domestic and $17 for premium ones at Super Bowl 2023, the Atlanta Falcons offered beer for just 42 cents per ounce at regular games.
Both events offer a range of beer options, from domestic to premium varieties. The exact price of a beer can vary significantly between events and locations. For instance, at the Super Bowl, a beer was reported to be $3 at Vons and $2.79 on Instacart, while the national average for a 25-ounce can of Bud Light was $3 at convenience stores during the Super Bowl.
Regardless of the event, a large portion of the consumer spend is on beer. Americans spent approximately $1.3 billion on beer in the two weeks leading up to Super Bowl Sunday, and similar trends are observed during regular NFL games. The volume of beer consumed also varies. On Super Bowl Sunday, Americans are estimated to consume an astounding 325.5 million gallons of beer, much higher than consumption during a regular NFL game.

Factors influencing the price difference

Several factors influence the price difference between beer at the Super Bowl and regular NFL games. One significant factor is the demand-driven pricing strategy employed by vendors during the Super Bowl.

With millions of fans attending the event, vendors can charge higher prices knowing that people are willing to pay for convenience and enjoyment. Additionally, hosting the Super Bowl in a stadium with limited concession options may lead to monopolistic pricing power, allowing vendors to set higher prices without competition from outside establishments.

Furthermore, licensing agreements with major beer brands can also contribute to inflated prices as they often require exclusive selling rights within the stadium, limiting choices for consumers.

Another factor influencing price differences is sponsorship deals between sports leagues and beverage companies. These partnerships give certain brands exclusivity or priority placement within stadiums, leading to increased prices for their products compared to other alcoholic beverages that may be available elsewhere at lower costs.

Strategies to Save on Beer at the Super Bowl

How Much Is Beer At The Super Bowl (1)

To save on beer at the Super Bowl, consider pre-gaming before the game, taking advantage of tailgating options, or bringing your own alcohol.

Pre-gaming before the game

Before heading to the Super Bowl, there is one strategy that many alcohol enthusiasts consider: pre-gaming. This involves having a few drinks before entering the stadium to save some cash on overpriced beverages inside.

With an average concession price of $17 per beer at the Super Bowl, it’s no wonder why people resort to this cost-saving tactic. In fact, Americans spend approximately $1.3 billion on beer in the two weeks leading up to Super Bowl Sunday alone, so pre-gaming has become quite popular.

By enjoying a few drinks beforehand, fans can still partake in the game day spirit without breaking their budget. So if you’re attending the big game and want to avoid paying outrageous prices for beer at the stadium, consider starting your own party before even stepping foot through those gates.

Tailgating options

  • Enjoy a pre – game party in the parking lot, where you can bring your own beer and food.
  • Set up a grill and cook burgers, hot dogs, and other delicious fare to enjoy with your favorite beverages.
  • Take advantage of local bars or restaurants near the stadium that offer tailgating packages with discounted food and drink prices.
  • Join organized tailgating groups or fan clubs that provide a communal atmosphere for sharing drinks and snacks.
  • Consider renting an RV or camper to create a comfortable and convenient tailgating experience.
  • Explore local breweries or beer gardens near the stadium that may offer special promotions or discounts on Super Bowl Sunday.
  • Coordinate with friends or fellow fans to divide the cost of beverages and snacks, making it more affordable for everyone.
  • Plan ahead by purchasing alcoholic beverages in bulk from wholesale stores beforehand to save on costs.
  • Look out for deals and coupons offered by local grocery stores or beverage retailers leading up to the Super Bowl.

Bringing your own alcohol

Bringing your own alcohol can be a smart and cost-effective strategy when attending the Super Bowl. Not only does this allow you to enjoy your favorite drinks, but it also helps you save some cash. Here are a few reasons why bringing your own alcohol is a great idea:

  • Cost savings: With beer prices at the Super Bowl soaring as high as $17 per serving, bringing your own alcohol can significantly cut down on expenses. Instead of paying exorbitant prices for drinks at the stadium, you can enjoy your preferred beverages without breaking the bank.
  • Personalized selection: By bringing your own alcohol, you have complete control over what you drink. You can choose your favorite brands, flavors, and types of alcoholic beverages to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience.
  • Avoid long lines: Waiting in long concession stand lines during halftime or breaks in the game can be frustrating. By bringing your own alcohol, you eliminate the need to stand in line and can focus on enjoying the game without any interruptions.
  • Tailgating opportunities: Many Super Bowl attendees take advantage of tailgating before the game. Bringing your own alcohol allows you to be fully prepared for pre-game festivities and ensures that you have everything you need to celebrate with friends and fellow fans.
  • Regulations and restrictions: It’s important to note that there may be certain regulations and restrictions regarding bringing outside alcohol into the Super Bowl venue. Be sure to check the official rules beforehand to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beer prices at the Super Bowl can vary greatly depending on the stadium and year. However, it is safe to say that fans should expect to pay a premium for their beverages. Despite this, there are strategies such as pre-gaming and tailgating options that can help save some money.

Ultimately, attending the Super Bowl is about more than just the cost of beer; it’s about the experience of being part of one of America’s biggest sporting events.