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Watching the big game at home is definitely not the same as watching it in person. But, that doesn’t mean that you can’t at least have fun tailgating. Here are some tips for tailgating at home so you can (almost) feel like you’re at the game!
Tip #1: Take it outside.
The first way you can bring more excitement to watching the big game at home is to take the watch party outside. This will make your tailgate feel more like a tailgate and less like you’re watching a game at home.
Pull out all of your tailgate gear and set it up as if you were at an actual game. Find a place in your yard or driveway and set up your tent. Bring out the TV. Put out your chairs. Decorate your table.
The more authentic you make your tailgate, the more fun it will be.
Tip #2: Wear your team colors.
Another way to have more fun while tailgating at home is to wear your team colors the same way you would if you were attending a game at the stadium.
Now, I know that you would probably do this anyways, but I feel that it is worth mentioning. Dress as if you were going to the game in person. Put on your favorite jersey. Grab your foam finger. Put on your face paint. Have fun with it and go all out!
Tip #3: Fire up the grill.
If you are going to be tailgating at home, you should also fire up your grill and cook as if you are actually tailgating. Make it a full-fledged tailgate right down to the menu. So, make your favorite tailgate foods, and throw your drinks into a cooler.
Now, I will admit that I cheat on this one. But, that is because I generally don’t like grilling at tailgates. I prefer cooking at home and then taking the food to the tailgate. So, if you are like me, skip the grill and cook in your kitchen and then take it outside to the tailgate.
Another option is to do a combination of both. Cook your meats on the grill and make your sides and sweets in the kitchen. This will give you the flavor of grilling without all the work of cooking everything outside.
But, definitely put your drinks in the cooler! Not only will this make you feel more like you are at a tailgate, but it will also prevent people from constantly running in and out to get drinks.
Tip #4: Play some tailgate games.
Of course, tailgates are about more than just watching the game. They are about hanging out and having fun. So, make your at home tailgate an authentic one by playing some tailgate games.
It doesn’t matter if you choose classic tailgate games or a unique family favorite one. Play cornhole, Jenga, catch, or some other outdoor games you love and have a blast. The point is to spend some quality time with your loved ones having fun.
Tip #5: Invite your friends and neighbors over.
Lastly, when tailgating at home, invite your friends and neighbors over to join you. The truth is that tailgates are only fun when you share them with others. So, adopt a “the more, the merrier” approach to your tailgate.
I challenge you to turn your at home tailgate into a true block party. Set up a few tv’s. Have everyone bring some food, drinks, and chairs. Really get into the spirit of having fun while watching the big game.
Conclusion
It’s not always possible to attend the big game in person. But, you can still have the fun of tailgating for it. These tips for tailgating at home will make you feel one step closer to being there! Have fun!
For more tailgating tips, see our packing tips for tailgating success and how to tailgate with toddlers. And don’t forget to get your FREE copy of our Tailgate Packing List! (Find out how to get it in the box below.)
If you want to find out how to make attending football games with kids smoother, see the perfect age to take your kids to their first college football game and how to survive football games with kids. And check out how to please your sports fan while traveling!
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