Football season is upon us, folks. And when it comes to football, the action isn’t just on the field—it’s also in the parking lots! Whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or your favorite NFL team, tailgating is the ultimate pregame ritual. 

To help you score big at your next tailgate, here’s the ultimate list of tips you’ll need to tailgate like a pro. So, grab your gear, rally your squad and huddle up for some tailgate talk! 

1. Claim your turf early 

You know the saying: The early bird gets the worm. But when it comes to tailgating, the early bird gets the ultimate tailgating spot. Arrive early to ensure you have enough time for setup but also to get first dibs on the best tailgating real estate. Plus, you’ll have more time to soak up the pregame atmosphere. 

2. Bring your A-team 

A great tailgate is all about the company. Gather your crew of diehard fans, friends and family (even the ones just there for the food) to create an all-star tailgating lineup. Have each person bring something to the table, like snacks, drinks or desserts, and insist they also bring their gameday enthusiasm. After all, tailgating is a team sport. 

3. Prepare the perfect menu 

Tailgate food is the MVP of any parking lot party. From grilling burgers and brats to whipping up some winning dips and sweets, your menu needs to be as strong as your defense. Prep as much as you can the night before or consider having a local restaurant cater the affair. And don’t forget the essentials—plenty of napkins, utensils, wet wipes and, of course, a cooler stocked with refreshing ice-cold beverages. 

4. Set up like a pro 

You don’t want to fumble the setup, so make sure you have pop-up tents, folding tables and plenty of comfy chairs to go around. Create a central hub for food and drinks, and make sure you have plenty of shade to keep cool during the early-season games. Take it up a few notches with spirited décor such as team flags, football-themed serving pieces and maybe a speaker blasting your favorite fight songs. 

5. Keep the energy up 

A tailgate isn’t complete without the fun! Bring along some cornhole boards or a football or frisbee to toss around. Keep the energy up with some friendly competition or by cranking up the pregame tunes. If you want to be as competitive as the players on the field, start up a mini tailgate tournament to see who has the best arm or the sharpest cornhole skills. 

6. Be a good sport 

There’s a winner and a loser in every game. Once the game has concluded, reconvene at your tailgate spot to either celebrate the victory or drown your sorrows in leftover snacks. Recap highlights and commiserate over the low points of the game with your fellow fans. Sharing the experience is what it’s all about. And if you’re tailgating near fans of the opposing team—show good sportsmanship. Banter is part of the game...but keep it lighthearted. 

7. Have a cleanup strategy 

Just like any good football game, your tailgate needs a strong finish. Make sure you have a game plan for cleanup, so you don’t leave an ounce of trash behind. Bring plenty of trash bags and recycling bins—you should leave your tailgating spot cleaner than you found it. No one wants to be flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct by the parking/groundskeeping staff! 

The final whistle 

Tailgating is the ultimate way to build excitement for a big game by combining food, fun, friendship and football into one unforgettable experience. With these tips, you’re sure to score big and make every tailgate a winning event (regardless of the game's outcome). So, get your game face on, fire up the grill and get ready to tailgate like a champion!