Steelers fans tailgate for home opener at Acrisure Stadium

On a Sunday morning, Steelers fans gathered in large numbers outside Acrisure Stadium to celebrate the team's first home game of the season. The atmosphere was festive, resembling a holiday, as fans engaged in their beloved tailgating traditions. The parking lots were filled with the enticing aromas of breakfast foods, including eggs, bacon, and kielbasa, creating a vibrant and communal environment. Fans like Alyssa Shanahan expressed their excitement for this annual event, which has become a cherished ritual for many. Among the unique setups was a decorated school bus featuring a football field ceiling, a TV, and a drink bar, showcasing the creativity and dedication of the fans. Carl Sezawich highlighted the bus's special features, including multiple stations for cocktails. The tailgating experience has evolved over the years, with Kim Shanahan-Sezawich reminiscing about her previous tailgating vehicles, including ambulances, over her 23 years of participation. This particular gathering held special significance for Kim, as it marked the birthday of her late husband, Joe Shanahan, who would have turned 57. Despite the emotional weight of the day, Alyssa and Kim chose to honor his memory by continuing their family tradition of tailgating. They believed that Joe would have wanted them to celebrate their love for the Steelers and the community surrounding the team. The event not only pays tribute to the team's six Super Bowl victories but also reinforces the deep-rooted culture of Steelers fandom. As fans like Carl Sezawich noted, this tradition is an integral part of their lives, symbolizing resilience and unity among the Steelers community.