Of course you want your tailgate party to be fun, unforgettable, and the envy of all who walk by and see the champion spread you’ve laid out for your guests. All you need to do to host a great game day party out of the back of your van or SUV, is to start with the proper plan.
Timing is Key
Timing your tailgating is the key to success. Since the start time of your tailgate party is tied to kick off, you need to make sure you plan carefully, and get to your parking spot early enough to set up. It’s best to work backwards from kick off. Make a list of all the tasks involved, and the time you’ll need to accomplish them. Be generous with time; things can take longer than you might think they should. Remember to include often forgotten tasks, like pre-heating the grill and cleaning up.
Things to Bring for Successful Tailgating
- A grill that is charcoal or gas can be used, or a propane hotplate. Make sure to bring charcoal or extra fuel.
- Do bring your grilling tools. You might need a long handled fork, tongs, and spatula along with a brush for applying BBQ sauce.
- Bring plastic cups (two or three per person), plates, knives and forks, serving spoons, and plenty of paper napkins.
- You will need at least three coolers to have one for meat, one for drinks and one for ice.
- Don’t forget garbage bags and paper towels.
- Bring fold up tables and nylon camping chairs.
- Large bowls and platters for serving.
- A couple gallon jugs of water for clean up
- Condiments.
- Enough food and drink for everyone, plus a few extra.
Make sure to have plenty of food. Stick to a few basics for your first tailgate party, like hamburgers and hotdogs, steaks, or chicken and shrimp For cold days, think about a crock pot of chili and spiced cider to drink. You never know who may drop by, so bring enough for new friends. You can also share the load by asking some on your guest list to bring a favorite dish. If your guests are arriving while you are still getting the food ready, give them a drink, put out some chips, and ask them to help.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises at the last minute, make sure to check out the stadium’s website for their tailgating rules. Now you’re ready to put on your team’s colors and have a great day!
Susan MacMillan - " We are in this thing to help each other get through this thing, whatever it is." - Kurt Vonnegut
Join the Conversation