5 Tailgate Essentials | Welcome to Better

Father and son playing together with a football outside in the sun

It’s officially autumn, which means it’s finally football season! And what is the best party about football season? Tailgates!

Whether you are a football fanatic, foodie, or always down for a good corn hole competition, then tailgates are the perfect social event for you!

If you’re planning to throw your own tailgate party at home this year, then we are here to help you gear up for the perfect tailgate party.

Here are the 5 tailgate essentials that you can’t forget!

1. Game Day Streaming Setup

The first tailgate necessity is your game day streaming setup. Most of your guests will be excited to tune in to the game to watch their favorite team play, so make sure your streaming setup is superb so that you don’t miss the play of the game! Here are the items you’ll need to make sure you have for your at-home game day streaming setup:

A projector
A projector screen, bed sheet, or an empty side of a home
Laptop to stream the game
Good WiFi connection

First, you’ll need a projector like this one to project the game. Once you have your projector you’ll need to decide where you want to project the game. You can purchase a projector screen or a jumbo blow-up TV screen, DIY it with a bed sheet, or simply project it on the side of your home depending on the exterior layout of your home.

2. Team Décor

Team décor is a must. If you’re having a tailgate party, have your space decked out with the team colors of your choice! You’ll need everything from balloons, streamers, and signs to plastic plates and cups in your team colors. Even if you have a "divided house," you should set up opposing team décor to get your guest pumped up for the rivalry!

3. Food

Next, you might have guests that are not the biggest sport fans but might be major foodies. In order to make sure everyone’s needs are met, you will need to prepare a good spread for those who are showing up to the tailgate for the food. Every great tailgate has a great spread of dips!

It’s important to cater to your guests' dietary restrictions as well. If you have gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian friends, be sure to give them something to munch on! Here are the best dips to cater to all guests:

Buffalo Chicken Dip
Hummus
Guacamole
Nacho Cheese Dip

4. Games

A little friendly competition in between commercials and during halftime is a great activity for everyone. Having a variety of games like Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Ladder Ball, and Giant Connect 4 will keep your guest entertained all night long.

Games are also a great way to keep the kids preoccupied, as well as give your friends something to do if they are not so interested in the game.

5. Back-Up Plan

If you’re having an event outside, it’s always best to have a back-up plan. The weather always has a mind of its own, so being prepared with a plan B will ease a lot of stress when it comes down to the day of your event.

If your event is outdoors, make sure you have either a tent or covered patio or porch option, or the ability to move the party indoors.

Now that you know the 5 tailgate essentials you need to throw the perfect tailgate party, you’re ready to tailgate all season long!

Laura Kornaker

Author

As the Internet Sales Manager in Cincinnati, Laura's goal is to make your new home investment a smooth and easy process. With her 15+ years' experience in the new home building business, she’ll help you navigate through the best scenarios and opportunities. Laura has lived in Cincinnati for over 20 years and knows all of the best schools, shopping, restaurants, and recreation. She’ll help you find the perfect location and home. She’ll even get you started on financing! Whether you are relocating or local, moving up or downsizing, Laura is the expert to get started with!