Fall is upon us, which means football season is here. Fans can smell the arrival of the sport in the air as soon as the last pool party ends. Football games mean tailgating parties, and tailgating parties mean you’ve got work to do.
From seasoned tailgaters to first-timers, everyone can use a little help getting ready for tailgating season. Here are some checklist items to get locked down before the first big game.
Check the Stadium’s Policies
Wait. Will your team’s stadium even allow tailgating parties? Some won’t. Be sure to do your research well ahead of time so you don’t do a bunch of prep for nothing.
Check that your stadium allows tailgating parties, and if so, what time you are allowed to arrive. Then look into the stadium’s rules about open flames and grills. If burgers are on the menu, you don’t want to be serving them raw.
Prep Your Space
Once you know you can tailgate at your stadium, line up the items you’ll need to create your space. Football takes place during fall and winter, so the weather can range from Indian summer heat to rain or snow.
Have a shelter ready, ideally a party tent, that will provide you and your guests protection from all elements. Invest in a quality fold-up table and nice chairs for food prep, seating, and eating. Finally, don’t forget to keep decorations in your trunk to fly the flags and banners of your team!
Bring Layers
About that variable weather. You should plan to dress in layers, donning short sleeves for a nicer day with warmer gear on hand should the temperature drop.
Surely you’ve got football jerseys, hats, and beanies. You can also look into Carhartt hoodies, which will keep you nice and toasty on chilly afternoons without breaking the bank. Think long-sleeved tees, hooded sweatshirts, or a nice lined jacket. You can never pack too many layers for an unpredictable day outdoors.
Invest in a Good Cooler and Grill
A cooler and a grill will likely meet all your parking lot food needs. You’ll need to keep your cold food cold enough that it doesn’t invite bacteria. At the same time, your grill should heat up fast and be able to cook your food evenly.
You’ll want a cooler and a grill that you can use for years to come, so don’t skimp on these items. After all, this tailgating season is unlikely to be your last.
Organize Your Cookware and Serveware
Two more good investments that will last you many games are cookware and serveware. You’ll need cooking utensils like tongs, spatulas, and mitts, as well as containers to store your items.
Guests will be eager to gather around the chip-and-dipper and beverage dispensers. You’ll also want to provide paper plates, cups, silverware, as well as a tub for all the dirty dishes. Oh! And don’t forget handy items like a bottle opener, hand sanitizer, and even a metal bucket for your hot coals.
Keep Trash and Recycling Bags on Hand
All these paper plates, bottles of beer, cans of soda, and so much more will become trash or recycling at some point. Bring plenty of bags so you don’t leave the stadium lot a mess.
It’s also a good idea to have bungee cords on hand to hang your trash bags somewhere. This trick will keep your garbage off the ground and offer easy access for partygoers.
Make a Shopping List
A week before the game, make a shopping list of food and beverage items you plan on serving. Finger foods are a great choice so your attendees don’t have to juggle plates and utensils. You can also go for hot dogs and burgers — easy handheld foods that don’t require a knife and fork. Ribs are fun, but super messy, so if you go with this option bring extra wipes!
Your best bet with beverages is to go with cans or bottles, so guests can grab and go. Not that you can avoid cups altogether, as you should also provide water. Plan to bring a gallon or two for drinking and pouring on hot coals.
Pack Games
Now, if you’re like many tailgate partygoers, you’re going to want to show up several hours early. That gives you time to set up shop, get your grill going, and play.
Yep, play. It wouldn’t be a tailgating party without tailgating games. Think bocce ball, cornhole, and even beer pong. Just be sure someone brings an extra table and those plastic cups if beer pong is on the agenda. You can also bring a football or a hacky sack for more active entertainment. Hey, it will help you burn off the burgers and brews.
Talk to Your People
Finally, talk to your people. Make sure you invite guests well in advance so they don’t make other plans. Discuss who will bring what food items and what extras (like that beer pong table).
Check in with everyone a few days ahead of time, too, just to make sure nothing gets forgotten. This follow-up gives you plenty of time to run out and grab any necessities you’re missing. The big game is almost here!
A Well-Planned Tailgate Party Is the Best Kind
Ultimately, when you prepare ahead of time for something as big as a tailgate party, you’re always happier. Make lists, gear up, pack those layers, load up your vehicle, and coordinate with your people. The surest way to have an amazing party is to plan ahead, so all your bases are covered. Oh wait, that’s a different sport.
