For many sports fans, the kickoff to football season means the time to tailgate has returned as well. Tailgating evolved from informal fan gatherings by the tailgate of a supply wagon preceding the earliest college football games. Today, it involves setting up temporary camp in the parking lot of everything from neighborhood schools to city stadiums before a big game.
According to a study by Quicken Loans Racing and Beckon Media, 80 percent of Americans tailgate annually. Among those, 61 percent tailgate five or more times per season. Various stadiums have noteworthy tailgating traditions, but just about any locale can be a great place for fans to gather before seeing their favorite team play in person. Here’s some of what is needed to pregame with style.
• Vehicle: Naturally a vehicle is one of the essentials of tailgating. Using a vehicle with a hatch or liftgate can make it easier to set up a tailgate in the parking lot that fans can gather around. An SUV, van or pickup truck also may have more room to store gear.
• Grill: The Quicken Loans survey found that 93 percent of tailgaters prepare their food at the stadium or venue and 78 percent use a grill to cook. On-site grilling requires a portable grill. Look for grills that are marketed for campers and tailgaters, such as the Weber Q1000.
• Coolers: Tailgaters will need access to cold beverages (or warm on chilly days), and coolers keep everything contained in one place. It’s best to determine if stadiums allow coolers, grills and other tailgating gear prior to bringing anything. It’s important to follow the rules when tailgating.
• Tables and chairs: Camp chairs to sit in and tables to set food on can keep tailgates orderly and comfortable.
• Tech items: Some tailgaters want to get into the sporting mood by watching other games on televisions or mobile devices that can stream content. Others may like listening to music or podcasts while they wait for the game to start. Speakers, tablets, mobile phones, small TVs, and even old fashioned AM/FM radios can be brought along to improve the tailgating experience.
• Blankets: Football weather can vary depending on the month and where the game is played. Tailgaters should check the forecast and pack clothing and other items accordingly. Everything from sweatshirts to blankets to ponchos might be needed if it’s chilly and wet. A hat and sunglasses can protect against glare shining off of the parking lot asphalt.
Tailgating is all about having fun. Fans should be ready to cheer on the team and mingle with like-minded devotees when setting up a tailgate.
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