A Fall-Time Refresher on Tailgating Etiquette
Whether you are a die-hard sports fanatic or enjoy any gathering with yummy foods and amazing beverages, tailgating is an enjoyable way to cheer on your favorite team in a casual social setting. Kick off football season this autumn with these tips for partying the safe and smart way.
Bring something to share
Always bring a food and/or drink to share with friends and nearby tailgaters. This is especially true if you’re attending someone else’s tailgating party. Whether you pack a couple of extra six-packs or make some additional wing trays, you will have more fun and help others have more fun if you contribute to the communal pool of tailgating refreshments.
Pack the essentials
Make sure to pack the gear, food, and drinks you need to maximize your tailgating experience. Don’t forget to pack your grill, cooler, chairs, Solo cups, and bottle openers. Make sure to get ice bags beforehand to keep your beverages chilled. It’s also a great idea to bring some paper towels and garbage bags for potential spills and minimizing the mess as you and your friends root for your team.
Guidelines for bringing your dog
If you want to bring your dog to a tailgating event, do your research beforehand to make sure pets are allowed in the area where you’ll be partying. If you do bring your dog, make sure to bring water and food as well as toys and appropriate shade. Keep your dog on a leash at all times, out of respect for other tailgaters who may or may not like dogs.
Go easy on the alcohol
Tailgating parties are known for being high on the alcohol—which makes it all too easy to overindulge while you’re at an event. Whether beer or wine coolers are your drink of choice, you can maximize fun and minimize potential hangovers by setting a healthy limit for how many drinks you’ll have during the shindig. Some individuals find it helpful to follow the “one drink per hour” guideline.
Keep things friendly
Avoid getting into heated arguments with fans from the other team. Tailgating provides a friendly context for sports fans to congregate, regardless of which “side” they’re on. Make small talk and share your food and drinks with your neighbors whether or not they’re wearing the same team colors.
Clean up afterwards
Don’t be that person that leaves a messy tailgating area behind after the game. Before heading home, tidy up the space where you partied. Also, remember to take home everything you brought with you; it’s all too easy to leave behind chairs or grilling gear. Cleaning up after yourself shows respect not just for the space, but to for other tailgaters.
Drive home safely
Stay safe as you leave the event so you can experience this thrilling pastime for years to come. To this end, it’s a good idea to decide on a designated driver beforehand. If you find yourself too tipsy to drive home and can’t find a friend to chauffeur you there, call a taxi or ride share service like Uber or Lyft. If the party area is near your house, consider walking home.
Follow these basic guidelines and you’ll help make tailgating events more fun and safe for everyone.
Sources: Baggo, All Pet News
Whitney Russell resides in Dayton, though her spirit can be found beach-bumming in Puerto Rico (the land of her half-Puerto Rican heritage). When not crafting car-related content, she can be found chasing after the most amazing toddler in the world, watching her “beaver” of a husband build amazing woodworking projects, hanging out with two crazy dogs, and visiting family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, and binge-watching period dramas when time allows. See more articles by Whitney.