Ottawa police, Bylaw, universities preparing for Sunday's Panda Game

Panda Game preparations Ottawa police and bylaw officers are preparing for the annual Panda Game on Sunday. CTV's Dave Charbonneau has more.

Ottawa police are urging students and fans to celebrate the 2024 Panda Game responsibly, stressing that street parties, open alcohol, and disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

The University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and Carleton Ravens will meet in the 55^th Panda Game at TD Place on Sunday.

In a press release, police highlighted their work with community partners to ensure public safety during the annual football game. The event, known for drawing large crowds, often leads to unsanctioned street parties.

“We remind partygoers that Police and Bylaw Officers will enforce the law, so we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly,” police said. “We ask attendees to respect the communities where the Panda Game-related events are taking place as they did during last year’s event.”

Officers will be patrolling the area around TD Place and nearby neighborhoods, including Sandy Hill and Old Ottawa South. Ottawa Bylaw officers will focus on enforcing noise, alcohol, and property-related regulations.

"There will be an increased police presence, much like there was last year," Coun. Stephanie Plante said.

"So you will not have to go far to find someone who can help intervene. But we're really hoping the students take advantage of the amenities that will be at the parking lot not too far from here. And we're really hoping the community can just get into some spirit as well, because we know it's been a tense couple of years, and we're really trying to change the narrative around Panda."

Action Sandy Hill has been working with police and Bylaw Services to prepare for Panda Game festivities.

"Holding it on a Sunday helps," Calla Barnett of Action Sandy Hill said.

"Because there's just less of an incentive to party all night, everybody has something to do on Monday. So, what it's done is reduced the partying in the neighbourhood and centred it on campus where it should be."

The University of Ottawa will be hosting pre-game and post-game parties on Sunday for the Panda Game. The Pre-Panda Party will be in the parking lot of 90U residence on the uOttawa campus from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the post-game party at 90U residence parking lot will be held from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Police also provided tips to ensure a safe and respectful celebration:

1. Plan your ride. Drive sober. No alcohol or drugs. Use rideshares, public transit, or stay overnight.

2. Be a good neighbour. Keep noise to a minimum and respect property in your neighbourhood.

3. Keep alcohol where it belongs. Police will enforce the Liquor Licence and Control Act.

4. Don’t invite police to the party. Keep gatherings under control with people you know.

5. Be a good friend. Watch out for each other’s safety and call 911 in an emergency.

Building on last year’s successful celebrations, Ottawa police aim to ensure this year’s festivities are safe, enjoyable, and respectful for all.

There were no significant incidents reported by Ottawa police after the 2023 Panda Game.  In 2022, seven people were arrested and dozens of tickets were issued after a street party in Sandy Hill following the football game. In 2021, thousands of students gathered on the streets in Sandy Hill, with a car flipped onto its roof.

This is the second year the Panda Game is being held on a Sunday.

"Last year we saw a really positive turn with the Panda Game," Alison Stewart, Ottawa Bylaw Services public information officer, told CTV News Ottawa.

"You know, in years past, there have been some issues with regards to large parties and things like that. But last year was a really positive experience for everyone involved, and we're looking to build upon that."