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\n1. Get there early <\/b><\/p>\n
Setting up your tailgate early is key to getting a good spot. If you know Columbus, you are aware that traffic around the stadium will be crazy. Be sure to leave 30 minutes earlier than you think you need to. You want to be close enough to the stadium so you can hear the band and the crowd, but not so close that you can't enjoy your own pre-game festivities.<\/p>\n
A good rule of thumb: If game time is at noon, aim to start tailgating around 9 a.m. This will give you plenty of time to set up and socialize before things really get going.<\/p>\n
2. Bring the essentials <\/b><\/p>\n
No tailgate is complete without a few key items:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Chairs or blankets to sit on <\/span><\/li>\n
- Coolers for food and drinks <\/span><\/li>\n
- Grill or portable stove <\/span><\/li>\n
- Tables <\/span><\/li>\n
- Games <\/span><\/li>\n
- Canopy or tent <\/span><\/li>\n
- Portable speaker <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Remember that you can make your setup as low-key or as over-the-top as you want. Some people like to bring TVs so they can watch other games. Others prefer to just relax and catch up with friends.<\/p>\n
3. Make a menu <\/b><\/p>\n
Now let's get to the fun stuff — food.<\/p>\n
Plan ahead and decide what you want to eat and drink. You can't go wrong with snacks like chips, dip, and pretzels; for drinks, water, soda, and beer are always popular choices. Will you be grilling? If so, make a shopping list of everything you need. Bring enough hot dogs and chicken wings for your group plus extra in case some friends drop by.<\/p>\n
Tip: Teamwork makes the dream work. Ask your friends and family to make their favorite dish (potato salad, anyone?) or bring their go-to beverage. There are so many options for great food in Columbus, pick up something on your way! <\/i><\/p>\n
4. Decorate your space <\/b><\/p>\n
This isn't the time for subtlety. When it comes to tailgating college football, the more festive you get, the better.<\/p>\n
Here's how you can show your team spirit:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Hang flags and banners from your canopy or tent <\/span><\/li>\n
- Put team stickers on your cooler <\/span><\/li>\n
- Break out the team-themed tablecloth <\/span><\/li>\n
- Slap a temporary tattoo on your arm <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- \n
- importantly, you'll want to dress the part by wearing your school's hat or jersey. Dedicated fans might even paint their faces or bodies with school colors.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
5. The games before THE game <\/b><\/p>\n
Tailgating parties are a great opportunity to socialize with friends, family, and even rival fans from opposing teams. Bring yard games like corn hole or KanJam to get people interacting. If you have kids with you, pack a foam football or frisbee so they can run around and burn off some energy.<\/p>\n
General tailgate etiquette is to be respectful of your fellow fans. Make sure your group is staying within your designated space and not blocking anyone's view.<\/i><\/p>\n
6. Play some tunes <\/b><\/p>\n
Music always gets people pumped up for the big game. Put together a playlist with your favorite pregame songs or create a Spotify station dedicated to your team.<\/p>\n
7. Be prepared for the weather <\/b><\/p>\n
Great weather makes for a great tailgate. But even if it's not looking so good, you can still have fun. It is central Ohio. After all, the weather could change in an instant! Tarps or umbrellas will help keep your space dry in case it rains.<\/p>\n
8. Don't forget the little things <\/b><\/p>\n
A few other items you might not think to pack, but could come in handy:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Trash bags for cleanup <\/span><\/li>\n
- Bug spray <\/span><\/li>\n
- First-aid kit (just in case) <\/span><\/li>\n
- Hand sanitizer <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
When you're loading up the car, be sure to double check that you have everything. It's always better to err on the side of caution than to find yourself without something important. (Cough, paper towels, cough.)<\/p>\n
9. Clean up before you go <\/b><\/p>\n
There's no bigger buzzkill than seeing trash all over the parking lot after a tailgate. Be sure to clean up your area before you head into the stadium. This includes disposing of any food waste, picking up garbage, and putting away all your tailgating gear.<\/p>\n
10. Have fun!<\/b><\/p>\n
Whether your team is a perennial powerhouse or just starting to make some noise, college football tailgating is always a good time. The energy in the air, the cheering fans, the delicious food — it's all part of the experience. And the pageantry and tradition is even more special when you're surrounded by friends and family.<\/p>\n
Be safe and enjoy the game. Go team!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
1. Get there early Setting up your tailgate early is key to getting a good spot. If you know Columbus, you are aware that traffic around the stadium will be crazy. Be sure to leave 30 minutes earlier than you think you need to. You want to be close enough to the stadium so you… <\/p>\n
- Bug spray <\/span><\/li>\n
- Trash bags for cleanup <\/span><\/li>\n
- Put team stickers on your cooler <\/span><\/li>\n
- Coolers for food and drinks <\/span><\/li>\n