3 TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR NEXT TAILGATE PARTY

Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean it’s time to pack up the grill. With football season well underway, many of us will take to the parking lots of our favorite team’s stadium to partake in the great American tradition of tailgating. At professional, college, or high school games across the country, tailgate parties are integral to many sports fans’ pregame ritual. So while you’re loading up the cooler and busting out the bean bags, keep these simple tips in mind to make sure your next tailgate party is unmissable!

1. Make Friends

While a small, more intimate gathering can be great, a tailgate party are not one of them. If you’re attending a professional or division 1 football game, chances are you’ll be surrounded by hundreds, if not thousands of people just as passionate as you! Tailgating is a social event and getting to know your fellow fanatics can be one of the best parts of the day. Whether it’s reliving your team’s most amazing plays or swapping recipes and grilling techniques, making new friends at a tailgate will ensure a great experience.

2. Be Respectful

Rivalries are a huge part of football and watching your team beat their nemesis can be one of the best experiences ever. Even if you’re the home team, chances are you’ll encounter some of the visitors’ fans. While some harmless jeering is to be expected, it’s easy to get carried away. Just remember the other team’s fans are there to do exactly what your are. Showing respect to everyone at the tailgate ensures a pleasant and safe experience for everyone.

Always pick up after yourself. Taking pride in your team means showing respect to the facilities and the staff who monitor the area. Cleaning up after a game is a huge undertaking, so don’t add more work for these busy folks.

3. Plan Your Menu

Unless you’re able to find the world’s bravest pizza guy who’s willing to find you in a sea of sports fans, you’ll probably be bringing your own food to your next tailgate. Room to sit and flat surfaces are usually pretty limited, so having food you and your guests can eat on the go is a good idea. Another concern is time. You don’t want to miss out on all of the tailgating fun by spending the whole time cooking and packing up. Opt for foods you can prepare relatively quickly and require minimum cleaning. Uncle Charley’s Grillers are a great solution for the limited space and time you might experience at a tailgate. Whether you like it sweet or with some extra heat, Italian or bratwurst,or new seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice or Texmex, there’s a flavor for everyone!  Just make sure to bring enough for seconds!

Tailgating is the best part of the fall season for many people. Even those who aren’t sports fans can enjoy the festivities and food. By following these suggestions, you’ll be sure to have an amazing party before your beloved team takes the field. Do you have any tailgating traditions? Let us know about them!