For several reasons, one of the most exciting moments of a Clemson student’s life is their 21st birthday.

One of the most obvious reasons is that it instantly becomes legal to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, accompanied by a no-hassle admission to any bar of your choice. Weekends can now become a time to go downtown with all your friends and experience the people, the music and, of course, the drinks. 

However, in addition to all of this, there is one particular Clemson tradition that puts the icing on your 21st birthday cake.

One of Clemson’s most iconic bars, Tiger Town Tavern, promises a free 21st birthday t-shirt to any Clemson student that comes in to get one on the day of their 21st birthday. 

Be cautious, though, because they enforce a very strict rule when it comes to claiming your shirt. If you don’t come in on the specific day of your birthday, you’ll have to pay $11 to claim that staple piece of Clemson culture.

Every day on Clemson’s campus, you can spot people wearing their 21st shirts, all featuring the same timeless design. The bar’s name, “Tiger Town Tavern,” is displayed in orange on the front of a navy-blue shirt. On the back, a large “21” takes the center, while a tiger sits in an oversized beer mug accompanied by the words, “21st BIRTHDAY I’M LEGAL!!!”

Many students wait at the doors of Tiger Town Tavern for the clock to strike midnight on the eve of their 21st birthday so they can go in and claim their shirts.

Make sure when your 21st birthday rolls around, promptly make your way downtown to Tiger Town Tavern to make sure you can be a part of this tradition.