With football season almost over, it's time to talk about one thing that makes football games even better: tailgating. There's nothing quite like the excitement of a tailgate party - the smell of grilled meats, the feeling of cold beer in your hand, the sound of laughter and friendly competition filling the air. Tailgating is the epitome of sports fandom, and it's a tradition that has been passed down through generations of fans. In this blog, we'll dive into the history of tailgate parties, what makes them so special, and tips for hosting your own epic tailgate party.
History of Tailgating
First and foremost, let's talk about the history of tailgating. The term "tailgate party" originated in the United States during the early 20th century, and it became an official term in the 1950s. The tradition of tailgating actually began as early as the Civil War, when soldiers would gather around tables set up behind their wagons to share food and drinks. The concept grew in popularity throughout the years, and it's now an essential part of the football experience. But tailgating isn't just limited to football - it's become a part of almost every major sporting event in America, from baseball to NASCAR to golf tournaments.
Evolution of Tailgating
After its humble beginnings during the Civil War, tailgating evolved in tandem with the rise of professional sports. In the 1960s and '70s, the advent of station wagons and then pick-up trucks with wide, flat rear ends provided an elevated platform for fans to sit, eat, and cheer. This is where the term "tailgating" took root, as fans would literally sit on the tailgate of their vehicle.
The tradition of tailgating began to morph into something more organized and communal around the 1980s. Teams and stadiums started to build lots designated for tailgating. This allowed fans to gather hours before the game, setting up portable grills, coolers, and even TV sets to watch pregame coverage.
Towards the late '90s and early 2000s, tailgating started being recognized as an art and science of its own right. Many fans started to invest in dedicated tailgating gear, including specialized vehicles, custom grills, and even portable furniture. Tailgating recipes and cookbooks began to appear, as did competitions for the best tailgate setups.
In the present day, tailgating has become an integral part of American sporting culture, and it's more than just a pre-game party. It's a time to bond, revel in shared enthusiasm, and create memorable experiences. It's a tradition that has certainly stood the test of time and will likely continue to be a staple of the sports experience for years to come.
What Makes Tailgating So Special
So what makes tailgating so special? For one, it's the ultimate gathering of like-minded fans. When thousands of fans come together to root for their team, the energy is electric. Tailgating provides a way for fans to connect with each other before the game and bond over their shared love of their team. It's also an opportunity to show your team spirit in a big way, whether it's through elaborate costumes, team-themed beverages, or decked-out vehicles.
Additionally, tailgating is a unique experience that combines elements of a picnic, a block party, and a fan fest into one. It is a celebration of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and of course, good food. The tailgate lot transforms into a bustling community where families, friends, and even strangers come together, united by the anticipation of the game.
But perhaps the most distinctive aspect of tailgating is its ability to transcend the barrier of the game itself. Even if the team doesn't win, the spirit of the tailgate remains high. It's about the shared experience, the collective memory-making that happens outside the stadium. The game may be the reason people gather, but the tailgate is what they remember and look forward to season after season.
In essence, tailgating is a unique blend of food, fun, and fellowship that revolves around a love of sports. It amplifies the excitement of the game, fostering an atmosphere that combines anticipation, tradition, and a sense of belonging. This is what makes tailgating so special - it's much more than a pre-game gathering, it's an event in and of itself.
The Food
Perhaps the best thing about tailgating is the food. There's nothing quite like the smell of grilled meats and veggies wafting through the parking lot. Tailgating menus can range from simple hot dogs and burgers to gourmet dishes like smoked brisket or grilled lobster tails. Part of the fun of tailgating is trying new dishes and sharing recipes with fellow fans.
Tailgate Games
Tailgate games are an essential element of any pre-game celebration. They add an extra layer of fun and friendly competition to the mix, keeping the energy high and the spirit of rivalry alive. Among the favorite tailgate games, two stand out for their enduring popularity and universal appeal: Tailgate Cornhole and Beer Pong.
Cornhole
Cornhole, also known as beanbag toss, is a classic tailgate game that is both simple to learn and incredibly entertaining. It involves players taking turns tossing small, square bags filled with dried corn onto a raised platform with a hole at the far end. The goal is to get as many bags as possible into the hole or at least on the board.
This game has become a staple at tailgates due to its accessibility - anyone can play, regardless of age or athletic ability. It also allows for a lot of customization, with many fans choosing to have their tailgate cornhole boards decorated in their team's colors or logos.
Since its inception, cornhole has been a beloved fixture at tailgate parties. Its simplicity and inclusivity have made it a crowd favorite. Easy to set-up, it requires minimal equipment - two boards and eight bags - which can be easily transported in the trunk of a car. Its uncomplicated rules also make it a game that's easy to pick up, ensuring that everyone, from kids to grandparents, can join in the fun.
At a tailgate party, a cornhole match can be as relaxed or as competitive as you want it to be. Whether it's a friendly game among family or a heated competition between rival fans, it always serves as a great icebreaker and conversation starter. Moreover, it adds a layer of anticipation and excitement to the pre-game festivities.
The game has also spawned a sort of mini culture within the tailgate community. Many fans personalize their cornhole boards with their team's colors, logos or even mascot images. Some even go a step further, crafting their own custom boards and bags.
But the real charm of cornhole lies in its ability to bring people together. As players take turns aiming for the hole, onlookers cheer, strategize, and bond over their shared love for the game. It's a game that promotes friendly competition, camaraderie, and most importantly, fun - everything that tailgating stands for.
Beer Pong
Another fan favorite is beer pong, a game that perfectly combines skill, luck, and the element of drinking. Beer pong requires players to throw a ping pong ball across a able with the intent of landing the ball in one of several cups of beer on the other end. If the ball lands in a cup, the other team must drink the beer from that cup. The game continues until one team has no cups left. This game adds a lively, social aspect to the tailgate, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly rivalry among participants. Just remember to play responsibly!
These games offer a fun diversion for fans as they wait for the main event to start, increasing the festive atmosphere of the tailgate. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a tailgating newbie, participating in a game of cornhole or beer pong is a must-do to get the full tailgate experience.
How to Host a Tailgate Party
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about how to host your own tailgate party. First, find a spot with plenty of room for all your guests and gear. Make sure you have a grill, tables, chairs, and plenty of coolers and ice. You'll also want to create a festive atmosphere with team banners, decorations, and games like cornhole or beer pong. Make sure you've got your own professional cornhole boards and pro cornhole bags. You can even hire a DJ or band to provide some live music.
When planning your menu, keep in mind that you'll need to prepare food in advance and transport it to the tailgate spot. Stick with foods that are easy to prepare, like burgers, hot dogs, and pulled pork. Don't forget to bring plenty of snacks, drinks, and ice. And of course, make sure you have plenty of team-themed items like cups, napkins, and plates.
Get Ready For Your Own Tailgate Party
There's no denying that tailgate parties are a big part of American sports culture. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual spectator, there's something for everyone at a tailgate party. It's a chance to connect with fellow fans, bond over good food and drinks, and show your team spirit in a big way. So grab your grill, pack your cooler, and get ready to cheer your team on in the ultimate sports fandom experience.