Tailgating isn’t just about grabbing a bite before the game. It’s a full-blown event—part BBQ, part fan festival, all heart. Imagine stadium car parks turned into makeshift pubs. Grills fired up, beers flowing, people in team colours chatting like old mates – even if they just met. That’s tailgating and it’s huge in the US.
If you’re heading over from the UK to catch an NFL game, you’ll want to experience it. Here’s everything you need to know – including some weird and wonderful team traditions.
A Bit of History: Where Did Tailgating Start?
Tailgating dates all the way back to 1869 – the first college football game in the US between Rutgers and Princeton. Spectators showed up with food, booze, and wagons to cheer on their side. The practice grew, and by the 1900s, fans were cooking and partying outside pro baseball and football games.
It exploded in the NFL during the 1960s when TV brought the sport into millions of homes – but true fans still wanted to be at the game. Tailgating became the pre-game ritual. Today, it’s part of the identity of American football.
The Food: Grills, Chilli, and Comfort in a Bun
Let’s not mess about. The food’s the main event at most tailgates. You’ll find:
- Burgers stacked high with bacon, cheese, onions – the works.
- Hot dogs and sausages, classic and spicy.
- Chicken wings in every flavour under the sun.
- Sliders for when you want to try a bit of everything.
- Steak skewers, chilli, quesadillas – it varies by region.
Sides? Think potato salad, corn on the cob, mac and cheese, baked beans. Bowls of crisps. Dips everywhere. And drinks? Coolers packed with beer, sodas, and often something cheeky like a margarita mix.
Pro tip: Prep your food ahead. Bring a solid grill and loads of ice. If you really want to impress – do a theme. Philly cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, gumbo in New Orleans, that sort of thing.
Fans cheer in the parking lot at a tailgate before a 2013 home game.
The Traditions: Fans Go All In
Tailgating is more than about the food. It’s where fans flex their creativity, their pride—and sometimes their madness.
Here are some of the more iconic and unique team traditions:
- Buffalo Bills: These fans don’t just tailgate. They jump off vans and smash folding tables. It’s not exactly encouraged, but it’s become a wild tradition known across the league.
- Green Bay Packers: Tailgating in freezing temps? No problem. Packers fans set up grills in snow, wear cheesehead hats, and eat bratwurst like it’s a religion.
- Kansas City Chiefs: BBQ capital of the NFL. Their tailgates are all about smoking meats—ribs, brisket, burnt ends. It’s a meat lover’s dream.
- Cleveland Browns (Dawg Pound): Fans show up with dog masks, bones, and barking chants. One fan even converted an old ambulance into a tailgating machine.
- Raiders (Las Vegas): Known for costumes. Think Mad Max meets football – silver and black face paint, spikes, skulls, and full-on theatrical outfits.
Other cities have their own quirks – midwestern casseroles, seafood boils down south, or Jell-O shots in team colours. Tailgating is where local culture and team spirit collide.
The Vibe: Loud, Proud, and Totally Communal
A proper tailgate feels like a block party before battle:
- Games like cornhole and beer pong.
- Music – team chants, classic rock, country, or full-blown DJ sets.
- Face paint and costumes.
- Fans trading banter and beers with total strangers.
It’s football’s version of a good pub session – only with more BBQ smoke in the air.
Tips for UK Fans: Don’t Be Shy, Just Dive In
You don’t need a car or a game plan to join a tailgate. Loads of them are open to everyone – some are run by fan clubs or tour groups. Just stroll up, say hello, and you’re in.
Top tips:
- Aim to arrive 3–4 hours before kick-off
- Rock your team’s gear or wave a small flag
- Don’t be shy – grab a plate, have a drink, and give cornhole a go with the locals
And if you’re travelling with Touchdown Trips, you’re sorted. Great inclusive tailgates are all part of the package – think food, drink, music, and brilliant people, all waiting to welcome you in.
Final Word: It’s More Than a Party
Tailgating might seem like a knees-up, but it’s a big part of what makes NFL game day so special. It’s where you meet locals, soak up the culture, and feel part of something big.
Miss the tailgate, and you miss half the fun.
Quick FAQ: Tailgating for UK NFL Fans
What is tailgating, exactly?
It’s a car park party before the game. Food, drinks, games, and fans getting hyped.
Do I need a car?
Nope. Many fans walk around or join hosted setups.
What time should I arrive?
Aim for 3-4 hours before kick-off.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Yes – With Touchdown Trips, this is all included but if doing it yourself, this is polite.
Are tailgates family-friendly?
Mostly, yes. Some get rowdy, but plenty are chill and welcoming for kids.
Ready to go?
Touchdown Trips can help plan your NFL adventure – tickets, flights, hotels, and a tailgate to remember. Just drop us a message.
