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12 Tips For A More Mindful Tailgate Party

Partying in the parking lot is half the fun.

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tailgate grilling
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One of the best parts about the fall season is cooler weather, fall harvest food, and the return of the football season. Whether you enjoy college football, local high school games, or professional football—maybe even all three!—you may find yourself planning for one, two, or maybe more tailgates this season. Take some stress off of your plate with all of the packing and preparation, and consider setting up a more mindful fall football tailgate. Here are 12 tips to help you enjoy all that game day has to offer without any of the stress.

1

Arrive Early

father and son tailgating
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Tailgating may require you to set an early alarm, but you'll feel good about it when you pull into that prime parking spot. Arriving early, well before kickoff, will give you and your crew enough time to set up chairs, tables, and grill. Don't forget some tailgate games like cornhole, or bring your own football to casually toss around before game time.

2

Be Ready with Beverages

red cooler filled with beverage cans
Jess Milton//Getty Images

You should have an ice-cold beverage soon after getting to the tailgate. Stock up on an assortment of options like bottled water and other canned drinks that'll last for a few hours.

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3

Come Prepared

first aid kit
Iuliia Bondar//Getty Images

You can never be too prepared, so when planning a more mindful tailgate, be ready for anything. Pack items you would not necessarily think of in case sudden issues arise. These could be extra bags of ice, first-aid gear, hats, jumper cables, sunblock, and warmer clothes like gloves, mittens, and scarves.

4

Create a Checklist

check mark on a check box on a paper,romania
Eugen Barbu / 500px//Getty Images

Do you have a lot to pack? From food and games to your favorite chair, list it all so you do not forget anything day-of. Whether the checklist is on your phone or created using good old-fashioned pen and paper, don't underestimate how much it helps. No one wants a flag on the play for tailgating!

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5

Do Not Neglect Clean-Up

rubbish for recycling on a doorstep for collection
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No one wants the tailgate party to end, but when it is time to pack up so you can head into the game, have a streamlined plan in place. Clearly label recycling bags and trash bags so everyone knows which is which. Recycle all bottles and cans with 1-2 trash bags near your tailgate spot at all times.

6

Have a Good Attitude

overhead view of american football ball on field
Tetra Images//Getty Images

When planning your tailgate, strive for a party that appeals to the entire group and all ages. Enlist the help of your guests if needed and get everyone involved. At the end of the day, no matter whether your team wins or loses, you'll be making memories with family, friends, and other sports fans.

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7

Make a More Mindful Menu

houston chronicle
Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers via Getty Images//Getty Images

When it comes to planning your tailgating menu, consider your guests and their taste preferences. Will there be children present or just adults? Are there any dietary preferences? Keep these questions in mind when crafting your menu so you don't have to spend money on groceries you won't use.

8

Order Gear

football items for tailgate party
Jupiterimages//Getty Images

On game day, be sure to don your team colors. That means ordering all of your gear ahead of time. Order some temporary team tattoos in advance to share with your crew. You can even purchase some nontoxic face paint and coordinate your decor if you want to go all out. Just remember to practice good sportsmanship when interacting with fans of opposing teams.

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9

Plan a Menu Theme

pancake breakfast taco with suny side up eggs, bacon, cheese
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One of the best parts about tailgating is that anything goes with food. Tailgating spreads can range from simple dishes to elaborate menus. Channel your inner Top Chef and set up a build-your-own burger bar complete with sides and toppings. Hosting an early morning tailgate? Try a breakfast or brunch theme complete with everyone’s favorite breakfast foods. Always be ambitious, but don't forget food safety and keep prepared foods and raw foods separate from each other.

10

Snack Attack

baked nachos with chili con carne mexican food
Carlo A//Getty Images

Appetizers and snacks are a staple at any football tailgate, so stock up on some game-day classics like chips with salsa and guacamole, crackers and hummus, fresh fruit, mixed nuts,, pretzels, and popcorn.

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11

Start the Day Before

paper trays with caramelized popcorn, chips, and snack mix on gray background
Claudia Totir//Getty Images

When tailgating, load up the car the night before with all of your supplies. Think of things like chairs, tables, and chairs. You can even load up some nonperishable food items like hamburger and hot dog buns, packed up sweets, and snacks like chips, crackers, and pretzels.

12

Enjoy Something Sweet

football theme cupcakes
Honeybee Photography/ Melissa Parada//Getty Images

A tailgate isn't complete without dessert, so don't forget to include some sweet treats. Set up a station at your tailgate and adorn it with football-shaped brownies, individual cupcakes topped with small footballs, or ooey-gooey rice crispy treats. If you are baking and frosting homemade cookies, select the team colors so your cookies match the theme of your tailgate party.

Headshot of Ashley Martens
Ashley Martens
Journalist

Ashley Martens is a wellness writer based in Chicago. With a lifelong passion for all things health and wellness, Ashley enjoys writing about topics to help people live happier and healthier lives. With a foundation in fitness, food, and nutrition, Ashley covers it all including sexual health and travel topics. Ashley is also a NASM-certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor.

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