There’s only one thing better than a football game: the tailgate.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran with the threadbare lucky jersey to prove it or a new fan, spending an afternoon (or all day, we’re not judging) in the sunshine with an endless supply of cold drinks, hot dogs, and team spirit is the perfect way to pass a Saturday.
In honor of everyone’s favorite season — football season — we’ve gathered eight tailgating traditions from VinePair readers to inspire you before the next big game.
Get Your Pregame On
A tailgate starts with a comfortable chair, a bright blue sky, a fall breeze, and my game-day attire. If I’m lucky, someone brings a grill and cooks me a plate of salmon, shrimp, and crab cakes. But my favorite thing about a tailgate is the hoopla, and my all-time favorite hoopla is watching my team’s marching band pass. I love seeing that long line of focused, happy college kids marching to the beat of the drum line on the way to the stadium. Pure joy. —Lori H.
When football season kicks off, it’s time for tailgating! Time for hanging out with friends, drinking beer, and firing up the grill with your favorite food — hot dogs, burgers, seafood — before cheering on your favorite team. My dad is the designated grill master, and he transports not one but two grills for the occasion. —Abigail B.
Tailgating has been a favorite activity of mine as far back as I can remember, and
