Planning a tailgate party can be hard…especially if you’re not sure how to combine your love of football and grilling with your party planning prowess.
We’ve got you covered. Read on to learn how to plan a tailgate party everyone will remember!
Make a To-Do List a Week Before When Planning a Tailgate Party
First, you’ll want to make a tailgate party checklist of all the food and drinks you’ll need to buy and start gathering any supplies that you might need, like coolers, grills, and games. If you are tailgating at a venue, make sure to secure your spot and check for any tailgating regulations. Then, you’ll want to start planning out your menu and making sure you have all the ingredients you need.
How to Pick the Perfect Location for Your Tailgate
The perfect location is a spot that is close to the action, has plenty of space for parking vehicles for tailgate parties and setting up, and is easy for guests to find. If you’re looking to host a large tailgate party, then a parking lot near the stadium is a great option, as you’ll have plenty of space for games, food, and other activities. Arrive early to secure your spot!
For a more intimate gathering, you might consider a tailgate party at a nearby park or picnic area. This can be a great option if you want to create a more relaxed atmosphere. Just be sure to choose a location that’s close enough to the stadium so you don’t miss any of the action.
What You’ll Need to Bring to Make the Ultimate Tailgate Spread
Will you be grilling? If so, make sure to bring the grill, charcoal, and lighter fluid plus a cooler with all of your party food and drinks. You’ll also need plates, utensils, and cups.
If you’re not grilling, bring plenty of food to share. Pack a variety of snacks, like chips and dip, wings, and veggie platters. Don’t forget the tailgate classics like hot dogs and hamburgers.
Make sure to bring a few cases of water, as well as sodas and beers, and ice! You’ll need a table or two for your food and drinks.
How to Entertain Your Guests at the Tailgate
When it comes to tailgate party invitations, make sure to give your guests enough notice so they can plan accordingly.
As for food and drinks, just make sure you have enough for everyone. Set up a TV so everyone can watch the game, or bring some lawn games like cornhole or KanJam. If you really want to get the party started, bring a speaker and some tunes to get everyone dancing.
How to Clean Up After the Tailgate Party Is Over
Cleaning up is not as fun, but it’s important to leave the area the way you found it (or better). Gather all trash and dispose of it properly including recyclables, too! If you brought any furniture, coolers, or grills, pack them up and put them back in your vehicle.
You would also need to sweep up any food or drink spills. Pick up any cigarette butts, napkins, straw wrappers, etc. that may have blown around. Give the area one last look to make sure you didn’t miss anything, then you’re done!
Get Planning
Planning a tailgate party can still be a fun and stress-free event. By following the tips in this guide, you can make sure that your tailgate party is a success. So what are you waiting for? Get planning!
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Andrea Parker is a reporter for Zobuz. She previously worked at Huffington Post and Vanity Fair. Andrea is based in NYC and covers issues affecting her city. In addition to her severe coffee addiction, she’s a Netflix enthusiast, a red wine drinker, and a voracious reader.
