UPDATE: As of 3:00 p.m. Friday, the hot dog tailgate has been cancelled.

Each year, GKOMs host a hot dog dance for freshman after the first home football game. However, this year the hot dog dance is being changed to a hot dog tailgate, which will be held prior to the football game.

The tailgate will start at 5:30 p.m. and will take place in front of the ticket booth.

According to Amy Skeens-Benton, Freshman Center Assistant Principal, the change was made due to bad weather and decreasing attendance over the past few years.

“We’ve had attendance dwindle every year and weather seems to make it even worse,” Skeens-Benton said. “Before the game it seems like we can have more activities, because when weather hits, everyone has to go home and we have to cancel the whole thing. So we are hoping that we’ll be able to actually do it this year.”

In addition to being more beneficial to freshmen, Skeens-Benton said that she thinks it will be more popular among GKOMs.

“I think the GKOMs are more excited that it’s before the game rather than after the game, because it can get pretty late and they make plans with friends after the football game,” Skeens-Benton said.

Admission will be free and hot dogs and music will be provided for everyone in attendance.

Overall, Skeens-Benton said she thinks the change to a tailgate from a dance should be advantageous for everyone.

“I think it’s a good idea because it brings the freshmen into the game and lets them be involved right at the get-go. Having the GKOMs involved early on is much better, and it’s introducing freshmen to the culture of Carmel High School.”