HPBA: Tailgating 101: Advice for Rookies, Regulars, and Experts

From HPBA Website:

The basics of a tailgate party prevail no matter where you tailgate -- whether it’s a college, professional or entertainment event. And one of the most important must-haves at every tailgate is the grill, according to two-fifths of Americans surveyed in the 2006 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) Tailgate Survey. In fact, nearly half of Americans agreed that forgetting to bring a grill or the food are the two biggest tailgate blunders a host can make. To ensure a blunder-free tailgate party, HPBA offers these checklists for every level of tailgater.

For any tailgating party:

• Know all rules and regulations of the tailgate park.
  
• Make sure you have ample seating.
  
• Provide plenty of room around the grill for the chef.
  
• Get there early to set-up and get the grill going,
  
• Bring water along to extinguish the fire and make sure it is out before leaving the game.

The Rookie: If you’ve never planned a tailgate before, keep things simple the first season
with the basics:

• The Grill: Charcoal or propane – make sure it’s small and transportable
  
• Tools: Grilling accessories, propane, or charcoal and lighter fluid (if necessary)
  
• Set-Up: Table, chairs, cooler
  
• Food: Burgers, hot dogs, chicken, snacks, dips and dessert
  
• Drinks: Whatever quenches your thirst (don’t forget ice for the cooler)
  
• Other must-haves: plates, napkins, trash bags, cups and condiments

The Routine Rally: For fans who have tailgating down pat from seasons of practice, remember there is always room for improvement. Upgrade your tailgate spot with some new twists in addition to the tailgate basics!

• The Grill: Raise the stakes with a grill that has more room for more food.
  
• Set-Up: Bring a portable tent with your school colors and logo, or favorite NFL or other sport team paraphernalia.
  
• Entertainment: Get pumped up with your team’s fight song and/or alma mater.
  
• Real Time Sports: Invest in a generator to hook-up your TV and stay up-to-speed with rival teams and all the stats.

The Extreme Team: For serious tailgaters only! Being part of this team takes experience
and a passion for tailgating and will keep your friends talking for years!

• Attachable-to-vehicle grill.
  
• Vehicle upgrade: Rent a large van or RV, or bring multiple vehicles and claim
  two to three spots
  
• Bigger is better: Use large speakers and giant TV’s.
  
• Team spirit: Hang banners and team flags to show ultimate team spirit.
  
• Theme team: Give your weekly tailgate a theme.