There’s no better way to experience the excitement of NHL hockey than with a tailgating party before the big game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie just learning your way around the hockey world, tailgating is a great way to have fun with friends and family while getting into the spirit of the game. From delicious food and drinks to fun games, there’s something to keep everyone entertained during your party. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll share some tips and ideas to make your NHL hockey tailgating experience unforgettable.
Choose the Right Location
The location is the most important factor in planning a successful tailgating party. It’s best to choose parking lots that are located close to the arena and offer ample space for tailgating. Some of the best locations for tailgating include the PNC Arena in Raleigh, the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, and the TD Garden in Boston. Be sure to arrive early to claim the best spots and to give yourself enough time to set up the area and get the party started.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Location
When choosing a location for your tailgating party, there are several factors to consider beyond proximity to the arena. Firstly, consider the amenities provided at the location. Some parking lots might have public restrooms, picnic tables, and grilling areas which can greatly enhance your tailgating experience.
Secondly, think about the parking restrictions and policies. Is overnight parking allowed if the party is likely to extend late into the night? Are there any restrictions on the types of vehicles that are allowed?
Lastly, consider the popularity of the location. While a bustling and lively tailgating location can add to the festive atmosphere, it might also mean a highly competitive environment for securing the best spots.
Remember, a well-chosen location can make or break your tailgating experience. Research thoroughly, arrive early, and always respect the rules and regulations of the area.
Cook Up Delicious Treats
Food is the backbone of any tailgating event, and hockey games are no exception. While the traditional hot dogs and burgers are always crowd pleasers, it’s fun to mix it up a bit with some creative recipes. Some popular hockey tailgate foods include chili, grilled chicken, and pork sandwiches. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, you can always opt for snacks like chips and dip, crackers and cheese, or even pre-packaged snack mixes.
Adding a Personal Touch to Your Menu
Adding your personal touch to the menu can make your tailgating party a memorable one. Consider introducing a 'Signature Dish' that is unique to your party and can become a talking point amongst your guests. Perhaps a homemade barbecue sauce for your chicken wings, or an unusually spiced chili that sets your dish apart. Creative appetizers such as bacon-wrapped jalapenos, or mini sliders with a surprise filling, can kickstart the food experience on a delightful note.
Experiment with Regional Favorites
Exploring regional favorites can be a fun and exciting element to include in your tailgating party. If you're at a Boston Bruins game, consider offering clam chowder or lobster rolls. If you're tailgating at a St. Louis Blues game, why not try St. Louis-style ribs or toasted ravioli? These regional offerings can help immerse your guests in the local culture and make the event even more memorable.
Don't Forget the Vegetarians
In your excitement to grill up meaty treats, don't forget about your vegetarian friends. Grilled vegetables, hummus and veggie trays, veggie burgers, and pasta salads are great options to cater to different dietary preferences. You can also experiment with vegetarian versions of traditional tailgating foods, such as veggie dogs or black bean burgers.
Remember, a successful tailgating party is not just about the game, it's about the camaraderie, the atmosphere, and of course, the food. So fire up that grill and let your culinary creativity shine!
Play Fun Tailgate Games
What’s a tailgate party without some fun and games? While most people are familiar with tailgate staples like Cornhole and Kan Jam, there are plenty of other games you can play to keep your guests entertained. Other popular games include Ladder Golf and Beer Pong. You can also create custom games with your own hockey-inspired twists, like a penalty box challenge or a hockey stick shootout.
The Appeal of Cornhole at a Tailgate Party
Cornhole is a classic tailgate game that never fails to bring people together and spark competitive spirits. It's a simple yet highly engaging game that players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy. The rules are easy to grasp: players take turns tossing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole in the far end. The aim is to get the bean bag in the hole or on the board for points.
Setting Up a Cornhole Game
Setting up a game of Cornhole at your tailgate party is straightforward. You'll need two Cornhole boards placed approximately 27 feet apart, facing each other. This is the regulation corn hole distance. Each player or team takes turns tossing the bean bags towards the opposing board. The great thing about Cornhole is that it doesn't require a large playing area, making it an ideal game for tailgate parties where space might be limited.
Customizing Your Cornhole Game
One of the things that makes Cornhole so perfect for a tailgate party is its potential for customization. You can show off your team spirit by getting corn hole games that feature the logo or colors of your favorite NHL team. Even the bean bags can be customized to match. This not only adds a personal touch to the game but also enhances the atmosphere of team pride at your tailgate party.
Remember, at the heart of every great tailgate party is fun, laughter, and friendly competition - and games like Cornhole are a fantastic way to bring all of these elements together.
Discovering the Fun of Kan Jam
Kan Jam is another popular game that is rapidly becoming a tailgate party favorite. Rooted in the simple pleasures of frisbee tossing, Kan Jam adds elements of competitive play and team strategy, making it a thrilling addition to any tailgating event.
How to Play Kan Jam
The game itself is quite straightforward. It involves two teams of two players each, with each team trying to throw a frisbee into a 'kan' - a large, cylindrical container with a slot in the front. The teams stand at opposite ends of the playing area, with the kans placed between them. Players take turns throwing the frisbee, while their teammate can assist by deflecting the frisbee into the kan. The game continues until a team reaches 21 points or achieves an 'Instant Win' by throwing the frisbee directly into the slot of the kan.
Tailoring Kan Jam to Your Hockey Tailgate Party
Just like Cornhole, Kan Jam can be easily tailored to fit the theme of your hockey tailgate. Consider customizing your kan with the logo of your favorite NHL team or using frisbees in your team's colors. This not only adds a personal touch but also amplifies the spirit of camaraderie and team pride during your tailgating event.
With its easy setup, simple rules, and high fun factor, Kan Jam is sure to be a hit at your next tailgate party. So, grab a frisbee, gather your friends, and let the Kan Jam games begin!
Discovering the Excitement of Ladder Golf
Another exciting game that can add an element of fun to your tailgate party is Ladder Golf. This game, also known as hillbilly golf, is a perfect blend of skill, luck, and humor that keeps players and spectators engaged and entertained.
How to Play Ladder Golf
The rules of Ladder Golf are simple. Each player has three bolas, which are two balls connected by a string. The aim is to toss these bolas onto a three-rung ladder. The top rung is worth three points, the middle rung two points, and the bottom rung one point. The goal is to be the first player or team to reach exactly 21 points. However, if a player goes over 21 points, their score is reduced to 13.
Incorporating Ladder Golf into Your Hockey Tailgate Party
Ladder Golf can also be customized to add an extra layer of fun to your hockey tailgate party. You can craft a ladder in your team's colors or use bolas that match your team's logo. You could even get a little creative and use hockey pucks instead of balls for the bolas. This customization not only adds a personal touch but can also enhance the atmosphere of team pride at your tailgate party.
Ladder Golf, with its blend of fun and competitive spirit, is sure to keep your guests entertained. So why not give it a try at your next tailgate party?
Embracing the Classic Game of Beer Pong
Beer Pong is a long-standing staple at parties and gatherings, and your tailgate should be no exception. This classic game combines accuracy, strategy, and of course, beer in a fun competition that often becomes the highlight of the event.
How to Play Beer Pong
In Beer Pong, players throw a ping pong ball across a table with the intent of landing the ball in one of several cups of beer on the other end. The game typically consists of two teams of two, with each team taking turns throwing the ping pong ball into their opponent's cups. Once a ball lands in a cup, the cup is taken away, and the opposing team drinks the beer in it. The first team to eliminate all of the opponent's cups is the winner.
Implementing Beer Pong into Your Hockey Tailgate Party
In the spirit of tailoring the game to your hockey-themed event, consider using cups in the colors of your favorite NHL team or even using a miniature hockey stick to launch the balls. This not only creates a memorable experience for your guests but also adds to the overall atmosphere of team pride and camaraderie. You can also spice up your beer pong tables with logos, colors and more.
Beer Pong is a game that promotes friendly competition, laughter, and enjoyment, making it a must-have at your next tailgate party. Grab your cups, ping pong balls, and let the games commence!
Stay Warm and Comfortable
Before you head out to your tailgate, make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. Depending on the time of year and location, it’s likely to get chilly out there. Be sure to pack plenty of extra layers, blankets, and even hand-warmers to keep you and your friends cozy. And don’t forget to bring some comfortable chairs and tables for your guests to relax and enjoy the game.
Get Excited for the Game
Finally, the ultimate goal of your tailgating party is to get pumped up for the game ahead. Blast some energetic tunes, hang up some colorful flags and signs, and create a festive atmosphere for your guests. Whether you’re cheering on your local team or rooting for an away team, make sure to show your spirit and have a great time.
Enjoy Your Next NHL Tailgate Party
There you have it: the ultimate beginner’s guide to NHL hockey tailgating! With these tips and ideas, you’re sure to have a memorable experience that will keep you coming back for more. Just remember to choose the right location, cook up some delicious treats, play some fun games like cornhole or beer pong, stay warm and comfortable, and get excited for the game. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the thrill of the game with family and friends!