How to Host a Tailgate Party
The time to huddle with friends and fans is nearly here, as college football season kicks off on August 26th this year! Tailgate parties are about so much more than just the game. They’re a chance to come together and celebrate, whether it’s a touchdown or just the joy of the game itself.
Here’s a game plan for hosting a tailgate party that will score big with your guests, whether you're a seasoned pro or just joining the league of football festivities.
To Serve: Tailgate Party Food
At a tailgate, the food's the real MVP, where touchdowns are made with every bite, and flavors always go for the extra point!
Tailgate Snacks
Loaded Grilled Nachos
A hearty way to kick off the festivities. This twist on classic nachos from Off the Beaten Path is sure to be a winner.
Pigskins in a Blanket
A fun take on the traditional pigs in a blanket from Pillsbury.
Gameday Buffalo Chicken Dip
Serve it with celery sticks and crackers for a taste that's sure to score with your guests. Check out this recipe from Green Valley Gable.
Tailgate Food Ideas
Game Day Beer Chili
Bowl over the other team with How Sweet Eats Chili.
Beer-Braised Bratwurst & Onions
These “beer brats” from Once Upon a Chef are perfect for eating with your fingers and easy to enjoy while mingling before the game
Sloppy Joe Sliders for Game Day
Slide into game-day victory with these sloppy joe sliders from Southern Discourse.
Tailgate Desserts
Brownie Footballs
Score a sweet touchdown with these football brownies from Betty Crocker.
Apple Pie Twists
Grab an apple twist from 2 Cookin’ Mamas and get in the game.
To Drink: Tailgate Drinks
Be the MVP of refreshments with a roster of easy Tailgate Drinks!
Build Your Own Bloody Mary
My Bloody Mary Mix Recipe:
4 cups tomato juice
1 cup vodka
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp hot sauce
Juice of 2 limes
1 tsp horseradish
Salt & pepper to taste
Big Batch Fireball Sangria
6 chopped apples
3 choppedpears
3 cups fireball
1 bottle of Pinot Grigio
8 cups apple cider
4 cups seltzer water
Mix all the ingredients in a serving jug - makes about 15-20 servings.
Tailgate Tea
You can make this treat from The Baker Mama either boozy or not boozy - either way its a touchdown.
Mo & Co Tip ✨ Use this schedule to make sure you’re hitting all the perfect timelines for your party.
To Set the Scene: Tailgate Decorations
Decorating for a tailgate party is all about team spirit.
Start by choosing tablecloths, utensils, and decorations in your team's colors. Hang pennants and banners to make the space festive, and don't forget to include some football-themed items like mini footballs or football field-shaped serving trays.
Links to shop! Plaid Tablecloth, Cooler, Red Mugs, Wicker Serving Dish, Charger Plates, Football Napkins, Football Helmet Plate
If you're near your car, use it as part of the décor by adding team flags or magnets. Portable string lights add a cozy touch for evening games, and consider a small portable turf rug to set the food on for that true gridiron feel.
Whatever your decorating approach, the key is to foster an environment that screams 'Go Team!' and puts everyone in the mood to cheer on the players as they battle on the field.
What to Listen To: Tailgate Music
Crank up the game-day anthems and let the pre-game dance-off begin!
Tailgate Party by Spotify because the right music can make a good tailgate great.
College Football Tailgate: 2023 by Spencer Kilgore. Get your red solo cups ready.
Tailgate Classics by Sam Raetz. Tailgating would be the same without these songs.
Get in on the Action: Tailgate Games
Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit with classic tailgate games that bring everyone into the action. Cornhole, ladder toss, or a rousing game of touch football—there's a playful battle for every sports fan.
Game Day Links: Cornhole, Kan Jam, Football, Portable Beer Pong Table, Spike Ball
Don't forget a mini-football for spontaneous passes between grill-master duties. These games are more than just fun and games; they're a tradition, a pre-game warm-up that builds camaraderie and gets everyone pumped for kickoff.
So dust off those bean bags and set up the goalposts, it's game time!
Tailgate Accessories
These are the top 5 tailgate accessories that will make your tailgate party a touchdown!
Portable Grill with App Controls: Some modern grills come with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control temperature and cooking time from your phone. Perfect for managing the brats without missing a moment of the pre-game show.
Outdoor Projector: Want to catch the early games before yours starts? An outdoor projector can turn a side of your vehicle or a portable screen into a big-screen experience.
Cooler with Built-in Speakers: Coolers today can be more than just a place to store drinks. Models with built-in Bluetooth speakers allow you to control the music without needing separate equipment.
Solar Chargers: Keep your devices charged with solar-powered USB chargers. These can be a lifesaver for long tailgate parties where you're using your phone for music, recipes, or simply staying in touch with fellow fans.
Foldable Furniture: Tables and chairs that fold down into compact, easy-to-carry sizes can make setup and tear down much faster and more convenient.
Mo & Co Tip ✨
Rather than mixing drinks, food, and condiments all in one cooler, use a “zone defense” strategy by dedicating separate coolers for each category. Label each cooler and organize the contents for easy access.
Tailgate Party Favors
Send your guests home with more than just memories of an incredible tailgate. Party favors aren't just for weddings and birthdays; they're the extra point in your game day celebration! Think mini footballs, team-colored koozies, or even personalized rally towels.
Want to really impress? Consider game day survival kits with sunscreen, a bottle opener, and a coupon for a free hot dog at the next home game.
With mouthwatering food, invigorating drinks, lively games, and those special touches that scream 'Go Team,' you're all set to host the tailgate party of the season.
Whether you're a seasoned tailgater or a rookie taking the field for the first time, these tips are sure to score you a touchdown with your guests. So gather your squad, pack up the car, and let's kick off game day in style. See you at the stadium!
