What do your fall weekends look like?
Ours brags of perfect red and black patches of face paint over a two-day-old beard, vibrations of fans' favorite cheers filling the lots adjacent to the stadium, oddly-colored Nike shoes side-stepping sticky remnants of spilled beer, and the smell of competing barbecues blasting the air with the scent of perfectly grilled beef. We know tailgates, and as the self-proclaimed, unofficial burger of NFL and NCAA tailgates all around the United States (just ask the folks at "What the Buc?" at your next Buccaneers game!), we must say, if you have not partook in this fall football tradition, you are missing out! Tailgating is a time-honored tradition where sports fans, foodies, and football enthusiasts come together to celebrate before the big game. It's not just about the food or the game; it's a culture, a community, a chaotic camaraderie and those who have mastered it, seek the MVP title every game. But tailgating takes practice, so if you are rookie looking to score big at the next game, this guide will keep you from turning your tailgate into a penalty flag on the play. Do's of Tailgating Do Cook Like a Champ Your grill skills could make or break your tailgate. Remember, what you cook says a lot about whether your tailgate is worth stopping by. We recommend starting with the classics—Steakhouse Elite burgers (crafted to perfection and ready to grill and serve), hot dogs, and ribs. The smell of perfectly grilled beef? That's your touchdown pass! Do Dress the Part Your attire is your uniform, your battle gear, and your team's lucky charm all wrapped into one. Whether it’s your favorite jersey, a hat sporting your team's logo, or face paint, wear it with pride. The more insane, the better! Do Know the Game and Team Brush up on your sports trivia. Knowing the game and the team can earn you the MVP award in any tailgate crew. Who was the coach in '82? Which player had a record-breaking season last year? Even if you're a grill master, being the master at stats can make you the star. Do Bring the Right Equipment Pack your tailgating essentials. This includes a reliable cooler, portable grill, foldable chairs, and, most importantly, a good playlist. A portable speaker blasting classic stadium anthems could drown out the noise from rival fans. Do Be a Good Sport Tailgating is all about fun, so leave the trash talk at home. Engage in friendly banter, cheer for your team, but be gracious whether you win or lose. High-fiving strangers is encouraged—unless they’re holding a plate of nachos! Don'ts of Tailgating Don't Ignore Traditions Every team has its tailgating traditions. From signature cheers to unique rituals, understanding and participating in these traditions is crucial. It’s the secret handshake of tailgating. Don't Forget the Extras Condiments, napkins, utensils—missing these is like fumbling on the one-yard line. Keep your tailgate efficient by packing the small stuff. Your ketchup-loving comrades will thank you for knowing how to perfectly dress a burger. But, in the event you forget, one of the great things about tailgating culture is: there's almost always a fellow fan willing to help you out! Don't Waste Food Sure, it's tempting to grill up a storm, but tailgating is a marathon, not a sprint. Plan your portions, share extras with neighboring tailgates, or pack some to enjoy during halftime. Remember, an empty cooler is a happy cooler. Don't Park Without Permission No one wants to be the tailgater who parked illegally and got towed before kickoff. Always check the parking rules and get there early to snag a prime spot. Your grill (and your pocket) will thank you. Don't Leave Your Trash The golden rule of tailgating is to leave no trace. Clean up your space, dispose of trash properly, and leave the area as you found it. A clean tailgate is a winning tailgate. Tailgating is an art form, a dance of flavors, sights, and sounds that paints the perfect pre-game picture. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to tackle game day like a pro. Just remember, the key to a successful tailgate is more than just great food and good company—it's the love of the game and the spirit of the fans that truly make it special. Next time you fire up that grill, channel your inner tailgating legend. And if you happen to stop by a Buccaneers game, tell the “What the Buc?” crew we said hi. Now go forth and tailgate like a champ!
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