September means only one thing for sports fans ...the start of football season.  And for the most enthusiastic football fans the party starts in the parking lot! Tailgating is the event before the main event and is just as important as the game to many fun-loving football fans.  Whether this is your first-ever tailgate or your 20th Annual Game Day Gathering, In the Curious Kitchen has ten tailgate essentials to make it a smashing success:

10.  Location, location, location! Day games early in the season can be scorchers so find a location in the shade, if at all possible.  And always bring along a portable canopy or two to provide some protection from the sun and they can be a lifesaver if it is raining on game day. 

 

9. Let the games begin! A cornhole or bean bag game or a dart board are fun for the whole crowd and might help ease the pre-game jitters or take off that competitive edge. Put together the perfect pregame party playlist of college favorites or the latest hits or tune into the local pre-game radio show.  And do not forget a waterproof Bluetooth speaker!

 

8. Be prepared!  Just like the Girl Scout motto says…or is it the Boy Scouts?  Regardless, do be prepared for any unexpected incident and put together a Tailgate Bag that is stocked and ready to go on a moment’s notice.  Essentials include a first-aid kit, bug spray, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, Clorox wipes, and maybe a rain poncho or two.

 

7.  Pull up a chair! Comfortable chairs are a must, for obvious reasons. Do not forget to bring a few extras for unexpected guests. Other outdoor supplies to have on hand include a folding table or two (and maybe a couple of smaller tables to use as end tables,) a good large cooler, and outdoor blankets to spread down for extra seating or for warmth during the late season colder games.  A portable, pop-up trashcan is also a great practical and very necessary item to bring. 

 

6.  Party on! The whole purpose is to cheer on the team so do not forget custom stadium cups, napkins, and paper plates with your team’s logo.  While plain items will certainly suffice bringing that little extra special touch will add to the festivities.  Any party shop in a college town will have all the necessities. 

 

5. Cheer on the Team! Do not forget the decorations.  Banners, pompoms, centerpieces, balloons…the ideas are limitless. Twinkle lights, outdoor lanterns or lights add a festive touch and help illuminate for night games. Be creative and add to the tailgate experience with a few special touches.

 

4.  Fire it up! Cooking supplies are crucial.  Do not forget to check the stadium or tailgate rules, too.  A nice-sized portable grill and fuel (if necessary,) slow cookers, a meat thermometer, a lighter or matches, and all of the grilling utensils should be added to the tailgate checklist.

 

3.  Clean up on Aisle 7!  Bring plenty of paper towels. It bears to be repeated: bring plenty of paper towels. Enough said.  

 

2.  Dig in! Food, and plenty of it. is a must!  The traditional burgers and dogs are great but try to bring the menu up a notch and let In the Curious Kitchen help.  Bring along plenty of our Pimento Cheese for sandwiches, cheeseballs, or dipping. Our Beer Cheese is another tailgate essential.  Always popular and perfect with veggies and crispy crackers.  Add some zing to your condiments caddy with our Bourbon Honey Mustard. For more tailgate ideas and recipes, check out the In the Curious Kitchen website.

 

Drumroll please!  And the Number 1 Tailgate Party essential is always your favorite beverage. While a good supply of ice cold bottled waters and a variety of speciality soft drinks should be in the cooler, a tailgate just would not be a tailgate without an adult beverage or two.  Beer is important but also mix up a batch or two of your favorite cocktail and serve from a fancy beverage dispenser or pitcher.  Yummy cocktail ideas can also be found on the In the Curious Kitchen website.  Favorites include: the traditional old-fashioned or Bourbon Slush ,and do not forget to pick up or order our Boozy Cherries, Bitters, or a Pantry Pack for the ideal bar set up!