Proper pre-game festivities are paramount to a successful college game day. Here are 10 commandments that will make tailgating in the South easier.
I. Thou shall dress properly. Know your venue. Cutoffs jeans and sleeveless tees may work on some campuses but I strongly suggest you research what is appropriate if you are visiting a campus for the first time. Remember, you can still be fashionable and comfortable at the same time.
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II.Thou shall bring food that is easy to pack. Use plastic storage containers to put snacks in and bring platters When you get there, you can transfer the food to platters for a nice display.
III. Thou shall create an upbeat music playlist. Include tunes that will get everyone pumped up for the big game, and don’t forget to bring a cordless speaker so everyone can join in on the fun.
IV. Thou shall bring/buy/make good food and drink. You may not be a gourmet chef but any respectable tailgate has great food. If you need to order from a specialty store or caterer, be sure to place your orders early in the week and pick them up the day before. More importantly, don’t forget to stock up on plenty of adult beverages. A word to the wise, make certain you understand the local and state alcohol laws where you’re be tailgating. Often times, campus and local police will “look the other way,” as long fans are behaving themselves.
V. Thou shall provide a way to watch live games. Some tailgaters go as far as setting up satellite TV’s, but you can use a laptop or iPad to steam your cable or satellite subscription inside your tent.
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VI. Thou shall seek out a good location. The early bird gets the worm. Arrive early for the best spots. Companies such as Tailgate Guys contract with major colleges to provide a complete game day tailgate experience from catering to satellite TVs, and other amenities. All you do is pay the price and show up.
VII. Thou shall clean as you go. Bring a large bin to discard empty platters – they’ll be out of sight and you can wash when you get home. Always have a garbage container for guests.
VIII. Thou shall bring plenty of napkins and towels. Tailgate food, at least good tailgate food, is messy. You can never have too many napkins (with team logo) on hand.
IX. Thou shall prepare the night before. Make life easier on everyone by prepping most of the food and packing the decor the night before. You won’t have to wake up early and the day will go smoothly.
X. Thou shall not stress. A tailgate is meant to be fun, not overwhelming. Cheers!
If you want to attend a college football tailgate but don’t know anyone, there is a solution. For a reasonable fee, my buddies Dan and Joe at Tailgate Connect can hook you up with tailgaters from around the country.