If you’re a baseball fan, there’s nothing better than tailgating before a big game. You can get together with friends and family, grill up some great food, and kick off the game in style. But there are some do's and don'ts when it comes to tailgating that you should be aware of. Here is your ultimate guide for tailgating at the ballpark!
Do Bring Your Own Food & Drinks
When it comes to tailgating, the most important rule is to bring your own food and drinks. Most stadiums will allow coolers in the parking lot but they often restrict bringing outside alcohol into the stadium itself. So make sure you check with your local stadium’s rules before you start packing! Also keep in mind that food can often be expensive inside the stadium, so it’s always a good idea to pack some snacks or even a full meal if you want to save some money.
Don't Leave Trash Everywhere
Once you’ve finished eating and drinking, make sure you clean up after yourself! It’s not only polite, but it also helps keep the area clean for other fans who might come after you. Be sure to bring garbage bags so that you can easily pick up all of your trash before leaving. This way, everyone else can enjoy their time in the parking lot without having to worry about stepping on any leftovers from past tailgaters.
Do Bring Fun Tailgate & Party Games
Tailgating isn’t just about the food and drinks – it’s also a great opportunity to get together with friends and have some fun. There are plenty of tailgate-ready games that you can bring along with you to liven up the atmosphere. Whether it’s a classic game like cornhole or something a bit more modern like Spikeball, having some games on hand can make the tailgate experience even better. Here are some great games you play at your next MLB tailgate party.
Cornhole
One of the most popular and classic tailgate games, cornhole is a great way to get everyone in the mood. Cornhole is an easy to learn but difficult to master game that has become a staple of MLB tailgates. It's a game that can be played by people of all ages and abilities, making it both fun and accessible for everyone who attends. The object of the game is to toss bean bags into the hole on a corn hole board. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. You can even get your own customized cornhole boards for the next event!
Spikeball
Another great addition to any MLB tailgate is Spikeball. This fast-paced game involves two teams of three players who stand in a circular formation around an elevated net. The object of the game is to hit a volleyball-sized ball off of the net and into the opposing team’s court. If the ball bounces off of the ground or out of bounds, the point goes to the other team. This game is great for getting everyone involved and adds an extra layer to your tailgate experience.
Wiffle Ball
Wiffle Ball is a classic tailgate game that can be played by kids and adults alike. The aim of the game is to hit a plastic ball with a lightweight bat and get it past an opposing player in the infield. This game involves a lot of running, jumping, and strategy which will keep everyone on their toes. Plus, it's easy to set up and doesn’t require any special equipment.
No matter what game you choose, having some fun tailgate games will make your pregame experience even more memorable.
Don't Disturb Other Tailgaters
When it comes to tailgating etiquette, the most important rule is to be respectful of other fans. If there are other tailgaters in the area, try to keep the noise levels down and don’t crowd around their cars or tents. This way everyone can enjoy their own pregame experience without worrying about being disturbed by someone else.
Do Bring Lawn Chairs
Once you’ve got your food and drinks packed, make sure to bring some lawn chairs so that you can comfortably relax and watch the action. Even if there’s a game on TV, it’s always nice to have a place to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere. Bringing lawn chairs also makes it easier for everyone to socialize with each other without having to stand around.
Do Be Mindful of Alcohol Consumption
While tailgates are a great way to unwind and have a few beers, it’s important to be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Make sure that everyone in your group is over 21 before bringing any alcoholic beverages and always drink responsibly. It’s also a good idea to designate a driver to make sure that everyone gets home safely.
Don't Get Too Rowdy
Tailgating is always meant to be fun, but don’t let things get too out of hand! Remember that you’re at a public place, and that other fans are around you. Keep the noise level down and avoid any disruptive behavior so everyone else can enjoy their time in the parking lot.
Do Play Some Music
Music is the perfect accompaniment to a tailgate party and it’s an easy way to get everyone into a celebratory mood before the game even starts! Make sure you bring along a Bluetooth speaker and some of your favorite songs to help create an atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
Do Invite Everyone To Join You
Tailgates are all about getting together with friends and family before a big game. So why not invite everyone along? Whether its close friends or distant relatives, tailgate parties are always more fun when there are more people involved. Plus, this is an opportunity for them to learn how to properly tailgate if they haven’t done so before! Just remember that everyone should be respectful of each other as well as other fans around them while they're enjoying themselves.
Don’t Forget to Show Your Team Pride
Finally, don’t forget to show off your team spirit! Wear your favorite jersey and make sure you bring along some banners or flags that showcase your team colors. Not only will this help add some life to your tailgate party, but it will also let other fans in the area know who you’re rooting for. So go ahead and show off your pride – it’s a great way to get pumped up for the big game!
Enjoy Your Next MLB Tailgate Party
Tailgating is one of the best parts of going to a baseball game - it brings everyone together for a great pre-game celebration! As long as you keep in mind these do's and don'ts then you'll have no problem having an amazing time before heading into the stadium for some exciting action on the field. So grab your cooler and snacks and head out for an unforgettable experience with friends and family. It's time for some serious tailgating fun!