Football season is here!

Now is the perfect time to prepare for gameday. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just looking forward to time with friends and family, we have your top tailgating tips for 2019!

TIP #1 – Reserve Your Spot

This applies most to college football fans. Don’t be a rookie and forget to lock up your tailgating spot prior to gameday. Many colleges and universities require reservations in advance. Some schools have allocated certain parking lots for pre-game festivities and may employ a first come/first serve system for reserving your spot. Jump on it early!

In addition, many schools have rules and regulations for tailgating. Check your favorite school’s website to review the tailgating policies and parking lot guidelines. Most universities post rules about start and end times for tailgating, audio systems, alcohol, trash, charcoal disposal, recycling and more as well as information about what you can and can't bring into the stadium.

TIP #2 – Build a Strong Food & Drink Roster

Show you’re a pro with all the food classics. Bring your favorite grill as well as tailgating staples — chicken, steak, burgers, hot dogs and barbecue are all musts for to keep a happy pre-game crowd.

Prepare the night before, think: marinate! Stock up on classic beverages: beer, wine and liquor. BE RESPONSIBLE!

Make it simple on your crowd: easy to make/grab foods. Consider deviled eggs, fruit and veggies with dips, chips, nuts, etc. The basic elements of every football party. Get creative with your ‘presentation’ by creating food under the football them. For example, fruit bowls in the shape of stadiums, desserts and cupcakes with football toppings.

With a little extra effort and preparation, you will be the football tailgating host no one can forget!

TIP #3 – Get in the Spirit!

You can’t have the food, but not have the look! Be sure to deck your area out in team décor or colors. From a school canopy to your napkins, putting in a little extra effort will make gameday unforgettable from beginning to end.

Don’t forget as tailgating host that you need to look the part! Be sure to be sporting your favorite football gear! T-shirt, hoodie, leggings… make sure anyone visiting your pre-game party knows exactly who you’re rooting for! Many schools have tailgating contests prior to the game… a great opportunity to grab a championship of your own!

TIP #4 – Pre-game Fun!

The typical tailgate arrives four hours prior to kickoff. You can only eat and drink so much! Be sure to keep your crew entertained with football or team specific games. Consider the classic tailgating games like Cornhole, Trivia, Beer Pong and don’t forget to bring your own football. Every person at that party has past stories of gridiron glory that they are always willing to relive… in the parking lot… year’s later. Trust us.

TIP #5 – Bring Some Tunes!

Many professional tailgaters opt for the local pre-game show, but not you! Get those emotions going with music. Create a playlist that gets the adrenaline flowing. Include the school fight song, along with the type of music you would take to the gym. With a couple of extra speakers and that killer smell coming off the grill, you’re bound to attract some attention and make some new friends in the crowd.

TIP #6 – ENJOY!

Take in everything that makes gameday special. Support your team. Create memories that last a lifetime. Be responsible with food and drink. And most of all, enjoy America’s greatest game!