Tailgating - An Art or Science

by Lawanna Beam
Bean's Things

History of the Pre-Sport

Many people don't realize just how old tailgating is. But most historians would tell us that it dates back to the 1800s. If you've lived long enough, you remember that fast food restaurants are a pretty recent thing, so going through a drive through was not an option. So Mom or Grandma would prepare a wonderful meal before the game which included homemade bread of some kind, fried chicken, homemade potato salad and probably some of that wonderful homemade lemonade.

Since professional football didn't begin until the 1950s, these homemade meals were eaten at the actual college football games. The first collegiate game was held between Rutgers and Princeton. At first only the northern teams embraced both the sport and the tradition of pigging out before the games with family and friends.

Although tailgating existed in various forms from the 1950s to the 1970s, the tradition began to really catch on with fans during the 1970s. Remember the big woodie-sided station wagons with the drop down panels? They and the pickup truck were ideal for families' meals before the game. And because everything was homemade, it was very economical.

Fast forward to current times. Today, tailgating is much more an art than science. Tailgaters are creative and diverse in the way they celebrate the meal before a game. You will see motor homes with full kitchens to pick-up trucks with hibachi grills and coolers full of beer. But like the old days, you will still see everything from takeout chicken to more fancy tables with linen tablecloths and all the trimmings.

Be informed so Your Tailgating Party Will be Successful

If you are not an expert in the art of tailgating, most experienced tailgaters are more than happy to include you in the group and share their tailgating knowledge. So don't skip the fun just because you feel shy about what to do or what to bring.

One of the most important things to do is to call ahead and ask for guidelines and suggestions. Every venue has specific rules. You will get the official rules and regulations, but oftentimes the person will share inside information that is helpful.

Planning Ahead is a MUST!

Even something as simple as calling ahead for takeout will make your tailgating party a lot more stress free. There are times when the demand is so high; you will be out of luck if you don't plan ahead. Let's face it; it's not really a party if you don't have food! And besides, who wants to sit there smelling all the great food and watching everyone else enjoy their tailgate experience.

You'll find the really big time tailgaters generally grill out. No picnic or carry out for them! As you know, there are many mini grills on the market, so it's not that hard to turn the parking lot into a tailgate barbecue. Favorites are hot dogs, hamburgers and sausages, but steak, chicken and pork chops are certainly not out of the question. Add the trimmings and you are all set for a good old-fashioned cook out. Oh, and don't forget the lawn chairs. Standing for hours balancing a plate in one hand and a drink in the other is NOT a lot of fun.

Today many tailgaters now decorate and compete to see which group can be the best. In addition, decking out in team gear, flags and blow ups add to the festive feel. More and more, you will see tailgaters who have invested in logo NCAA and NFL Canopies and chairs to show their pride in their team. Prices are competitive, so be sure and shop around for the best price.

Tips for Tailgating with Kids

Tailgating with kids can be more of a challenge. So you'll want to toss in some toys, music and video game players. It's also good to include more active toys like footballs and Frisbees. If the kids stay busy, they are more likely to make friends and share their toys. The end result is everyone has a more enjoyable time.

Tips for Game Day

You always want to arrive early. But no matter you are, there will always be others already set up and in full party mode. One of the reasons you want to be early is to get the prime shaded spots near the bath rooms. They always go fast, so don't miss out.

With a ballgame, you are looking at a full day when you tailgate before the game. So pack accordingly. Have plenty of food for everyone and beverages, which will include plenty of water because alcohol and caffeine dry out the body.

People tend to forget all the extras that make tailgating more comfortable. So remember to include umbrellas, trash bags, blankets, sunscreen and most importantly, bug spray. Even an extra coat or blanket in cold weather is a must.

If you are going to have music, be sure to bring something for all members of the party. A good variety is the best. In fact, it's not a bad idea to ask everyone to bring a couple of their favorite CDs. Then rotate. Music can really add to the tailgating atmosphere.

CONCLUSION

If you follow the basic tips above, your tailgating experience will be fun and a lot less stressful. I'm sure if you are an experienced tailgater, you could add a few things to this list. Happy Tailgating!

Article submitted Sunday, February 07, 2010 & read 388 times.

Lawanna Bean is a new writer with SearchWarp. She is retired and now has the time to pursue her hobbies. Velvet, her cat, is her constant companion. Her hobbies are collecting dolls, reading, cooking and gardening. Check out her new web site at www.rainorshinecanopy.com and her blogs at www.rainorshinecanopy.blogspot.com

Leave your comments through Blogz:

» left by Jeremy Wallace (2 years 99 days ago.)

Great article! Being a huge football fan I have enjoyed reading your tips on tailgating.
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» left by Ravi Dev Chauhan (2 years 99 days ago.)

Thanks for sharing these insightful tips on Tailgating it vastly improved my knowledge on this subject!
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» left by Jose Condemarin (2 years 98 days ago.)

Lawanna,

Nice article, I like it. Thank you
Respond to this comment

» left by Sandra E. Graham (2 years 97 days ago.)

Great article, Lawanna. You had me there for awhile, though, I thought you might have been talking about 'tailgating' on the freeway and I was waiting for the 'rear-ender' or road rage to begin. I relaxed a little after I got past the first couple of paragraphs.

Thanks for sharing-----this type of tail gate parties, I have always enjoyed.

Sandra

P.S. Welcome to Searchwarp.
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