How to make your next tailgating party incredible!
Fall is FINALLY here, and that means it’s time for sports! Regardless of your sport of choice, you will probably find yourself spending time with loved ones in front of the TV. But what happens when it’s your turn to host for the next game? Will you be prepared?!
Worry not—because we’ve got your back! Below we have listed out some key items that every successful at-home tailgating party should have. Feel free to totally rip off some of these items, tricks, and tips to make your next sporty get-together super memorable.
Party Prep:
Getting ready for the party doesn’t need to be overdone. Sure, we want to make a great impression on our friends, family, and colleges. But remember… THE GAME IS THE HIGHLIGHT! Your goal here is to create an atmosphere that supports as much sporting consumption as possible. A great general rule of thumb is to make your home inviting. This means clean surfaces, removing trash and clutter, sport themed decorations, and queueing up the game on the largest screen you have. (Pro-Tip: Surround sound speakers give the viewers a real sport stadiums experience.). If you have the right telecast of the game, you might as well consider yourself there, with all the great sights and sounds.
Food and Beverages:
Nothing says tailgating like a fired-up grill and an Ice-cold beer. Time to hit the tires and light the fires!! Although you’re hosting your guests at home, an authentic tailgating experience usually has all sorts of food, beverages, and snacks. At your earliest convenience, make plans to stop by the grocery store and stock-up on some goodies for your guests during the game. Remember to not over-think it though… Most guests will settle for whatever is presented to them. A few bags of chips, hot dogs, buns, beers, sodas, and Dip is usually more than enough for a small group of friends. Plan to have 10+ people for a real shindig-of-the-ages? Add some extra snack options and throw on some burgers. Be creative, but practical. Pro Tip: There is nothing wrong with telling your guests that it’s B.Y.O.B. (bring your own beer) and suggesting that everyone bring some sort of food item. Potlucks are a great way to share your family’s unique food cultures with each other. Also, why keep the competition on the game… Set it right out there on the kitchen table! “See Barbara—I told you I could create the greatest hot wings this side of The Cascades!”
Games and Entertainment:
As hard as this may be to admit, not everyone will be interested in watching the game. Why come to a tailgate if you’re not into sports? Idk.) Sometimes giving guests and their loved ones something other than the game to watch will help make the experience that much more enjoyable for everyone. Are kids attending? If so, clearing out some space on your lawn with some outdoor activities like cornhole, ladder ball, and spike is a great way to keep them entertained. Is this an all-adult party? Let’s spice things up with some beer pong, flip cups, and other “golden-years” games. These games are also a great way to kill the time during half times and intermissions. Again, be creative but practical. Another important trick to utilize in keeping your guests comfortable during their stay is playing some music that everyone can enjoy. When picking out a playlist, it is important to not become the self-proclaimed unofficial DJ for the party. I’m sure your music is great—really—but everyone has their own thing that get them going. Ask around and see what people would like played. Doing so will make you seem like a great host and who knows, maybe you’ll rediscover a song that you totally forgot about.
(Pro Tip: Don’t over structure things.). Keep your games out and available without forcing anyone to partake. Nobody likes to be told what to do (especially when their favorite team is on the verge of some important stat that nobody else seems to quite understand.)
Team Gear:
This is where your team spirit shines brightly–it’s time to don your team jerseys, hats, and lucky socks to prepare yourself for the big game. But why stop there? Decorate and prepare your home with all your team’s gear: including flags, pom-poms, noisemakers, team logo tablecloths, plates, napkins, and cups, and whatever else you can find that will spruce up your home into the ultimate fan’s space. Got pets? Make sure they’re also reppin’ your team. Have a baby? They should also be sporting your team! Bonus points if you have extra pieces of clothing your guests can supplement their outfits with to be that much more inspired. Extra bonus points if you get face paint to really show your allegiance! Regardless of if your team is the winners or not, your opponents will remember your crazed-ferocity-fandom when they remember this game.
(Pro tip: Be as visually obnoxious as possible when it comes to displaying your team spirit. Your guests will appreciate your confidence and fun-nature. Elevate the experience. Trust us!
Ultimately, the point of an at-home tailgating party is to watch the game with loved ones in a comfortable environment. However, how you go about doing this is up to you. These are some tips and tricks that we utilized ourselves on game days. Be yourself and do things how you’re comfortable doing them. If you have the game on the television, you can’t go wrong. Now… Locating the game on the different streaming devices… that’s a discussion for another time!
