How to Throw the Perfect Tailgate Party

How to Throw the Perfect Tailgate Party

Tailgate parties are a wonderful way to have a good time but only if you do them up right. Gathering your friends together to get ready for the big game seems easy enough, but it is actually rather easy to make some major tailgate party mistakes. Here are some tips to make sure your tailgate party is on point and the talk of the parking lot on game day:

 Know your location

A good tailgate party will need a good spot in the parking lot. Sometimes the crowds are too large to pick and choose and you simply have to take what is there, but generally you have some choices. Always pick a corner spot if you can. Spots along the side of the parking lot are good and especially so if they have a grassy area big enough for games like cornhole and horseshoes.

 Make sure you have sports fans

Although tailgate parties can certainly be fun for anyone, it is powered by sports fans. Make sure you have a few die hard fans to show up to get the excitement started. Everyone has a few sports fans like this, so invite a few!

 Assume bad weather

For whatever reason, a tailgate party is like a magnet for bad weather. Just embrace that and expect it so that you are always prepared. You need a few tarps, a tent cover and plenty of disposable rain jackets in case things go badly.

 Stock up on the stuff everyone forgets

Few people actually remember to buy cups, paper plates and silverware. Napkins are another basic staple as well as condiments. Buy these in bulk and make sure you keep plenty of them packed and ready to go during the season.

 Remember to make it a team affair

The whole point of a tailgating party is to have fun while supporting your team of choice. As such, decorate your setup with team gear and dress the part! This helps to get the party started and will show your team spirit to all who pass by.

 Buy the food…then buy extra

You can’t have too much food at a tailgating party. There is a better than even chance you will get passers-by and they will be hungry. In the spirit of team unity, you might want to share in the bounty. The bottom line is to never underestimate the food. Always buy extra because you will definitely need it and never waste it.

 Bring as much seating as possible

Tailgating is demanding work and after 10 rounds of cornhole and a couple of burgers, folks are going to want to sit down. While you can only pack so much, you should bring what chairs you have.

Simplify the menu

Don’t worry about being extra fancy with your setup or your menu. The bottom line is to find a quick and easy food that everyone loves like hot dogs, hamburgers or steaks and then do them up right. Putting your friends on notice to bring some of their own special dishes will accentuate your food choices.

Tailgating is really just a celebration of food, friends and sport. Mix the three up and you will have a successful one for sure. Happy tailgating!