ArenaKnoxville, TNTennessee games and events at Thompson-Boling Arena
Thompson-Boling Arena Entry Rules: Bags, Water and Food
Checked Source: Food City Center building policies page (utsports.com, opens in a new tab)Verified by BC
Short answer
Thompson-Boling Arena, now called Food City Center, allows one clear bag up to 12 by 6 by 12 inches or a one-gallon clear bag, plus a small clutch up to 4.5 by 6.5 inches. Backpacks, coolers, water bottles, outside food and drink, strollers, laptops and open umbrellas are banned. No items can be left or stored at the gates.
Every rule at Thompson-Boling Arena
An item that is not listed is not mentioned in the official pages we checked. Each row links to the page its rule came from.
Bag policy in detail
Patrons are limited to one clear plastic bag no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches or a one-gallon clear resealable bag, plus a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches. No other bags are allowed, and all items are searched at the gates. Backpacks are on the list of items not permitted. A small clutch purse not exceeding 4.5 x 6.5 inches is allowed, and wallets must also fit that size.
- Bag: Clear 12 x 6 x 12 in or 1-gallon bag, plus clutch
- Backpack: Not allowed
- Water bottle: Water bottles and mugs banned
- Outside food: Not allowed, medical exception
Food and drink
Water bottles and mugs, glass bottles, aluminum cans and thermos containers are not permitted. Outside food or beverages are not permitted unless needed for medical purposes, in which case they must be checked at Gate D. Coolers are on the list of items not permitted.
Cameras and electronics
Non-professional cameras are permitted for athletic events and most graduation ceremonies, and the policy varies for concerts. Video equipment is prohibited and flash photography is not permitted. Laptop computers are on the list of items not permitted. The pages do not mention camera lenses, tripods, drones, tablets and power banks.
Strollers and family items
Baby strollers or carriers are on the list of items not permitted. Medically necessary items must be searched. Diaper bags are not a medically necessary item, and diaper supplies should be carried in a clear bag.
Umbrellas, blankets and comfort items
Open umbrellas are on the list of items not permitted. The pages do not mention blankets and seat cushions.
Signs, flags and fan items
The pages do not mention signs, flags and binoculars.
Medical needs and accessibility
The pages describe no separate medical bag process, so ask the venue before the event if you need to bring medical items.
Security screening and arrival
Walk-through metal detectors are in place at all entrances for all events, and phones, cameras and large metal objects go in a bin. All items, including clear bags and clutches, are searched at the gates.
Bag storage and lockers
No items can be left or stored at the gates. Knives and bladed items are confiscated and discarded.
Tennessee games, concerts and other events
The arena has a no re-entry policy. The camera rule varies by event, and the arena asks guests to call for concert rules.
Prohibited items
From the official entry page. Staff can also refuse anything they decide could affect safety.
- Backpacks
- Water bottles
- Outside food
- Coolers
- Laptops
- Strollers
- Aerosol cans
- Alcoholic beverages
- Animals other than service dogs
- Beach balls and inflatables
- Bullhorns and noise makers
- Firearms and weapons
- Fireworks and confetti
- Folding chairs and stools
- Knives and bladed devices of any length
- Laser pointers
- Skateboards and roller blades
Questions about Thompson-Boling Arena
Patrons are limited to one clear plastic bag no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches or a one-gallon clear resealable bag, plus a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches. No other bags are allowed, and all items are searched at the gates.
Backpacks are on the list of items not permitted.
Water bottles and mugs, glass bottles, aluminum cans and thermos containers are not permitted.
Outside food or beverages are not permitted unless needed for medical purposes, in which case they must be checked at Gate D.
Coolers are on the list of items not permitted.
Baby strollers or carriers are on the list of items not permitted.
Sources
Checked on October 5, 2026 against the sources above. Venues can change rules without notice, and rules can differ by event. Confirm with the venue for your date. Next review: October 19, 2026.
Change log
First check: 21 rules read against the University of Tennessee page on the arena, which now calls it Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.
See something wrong? Report a wrong rule or read how we verify.
Not affiliated with Thompson-Boling Arena or its operators.