The Super Bowl is one of the biggest sports events in the world and the pinnacle of the football season. However, the organizers of this massive event raised eyebrows and dropped jaws when they announced they planned to no longer allow tailgating at the event. While fans are allowed to bring their own food and drink from home, and even enjoy it in the parking lot, they were strictly prohibited from taking up more than one parking space, setting up lounge chairs and grills, or setting up their favorite games. Needless to say, without tailgate tables and other classic accessories, the Super Bowl lost a lot of its charm. While football fans will still faithfully show up to enjoy the game every year, tailgaters may be at a loss as to what to do next. Don’t worry: There are other amazing tailgating events every year, and we will help you find them! Read on for the five biggest tailgating events in America and their individual appeal.
The Indy 500: Fast Cars and a Faster Party Scene
When people think ‘racing’, tailgating doesn’t always come to mind. The Indy 500 is one of the biggest racing events in the world, up there with Le Mans and the Monaco Grand Prix. As a uniquely American celebration of racing stamina, skill, and technique, it’s no surprise that the event has garnered a huge and devoted fanbase. The Indy 500 has also become one of the biggest and best tailgating events in the world. There are no Super Bowl style restrictions on food, drink, or parking. In fact, there’s quite the opposite: the event promoters actually encourage tailgaters by hosting their own official “Party Scene”. If you want to roast burgers, listen to music, play classic tailgating games, and enjoy the environment, the Indy 500 should be at the top of your list. The thrill of racing will set your adrenaline skyrocketing as you compete in games of cornhole and beer pong. If you head out to Indianapolis, you can rest assured that your tailgate tables will see a ton of action!
Fore! Why Tailgaters Need to Check Out the US Open
If I say “golf”, do you think of excitement and partying? If you’re unfamiliar with the complexities of the sport, you probably think of a dull and boring time. Obviously, golf does not set everyone’s world on fire. Despite this, the US Open has emerged as one of the best tailgating experiences in America. This massive golf event is held in San Francisco, which is one of the best vacation scenes for tourists. Before the event itself, visitors can enjoy the excellent restaurants and gorgeous sites. Then, when the Open begins, travellers can bust out their tailgate tables and have a great time!
Celebrate the 4th of July Weekend by Tailgating with NASCAR
The 4th of July is a momentous date for Americans: We celebrate the nation’s history, and more importantly, our love of freedom. Nothing says “freedom” better than tailgating and fireworks. That’s why the NASCAR Daytona event is so fantastic for tailgaters! The event allows you to bring your own food and drinks, and local supermarkets allow you to stock up on site without blowing through your budget. The racing competition, fireworks, and enthusiastic fans make for a great atmosphere! If you want an inexpensive yet insanely fun place to put down your tailgate tables, its time to consider NASCAR.
…Or Try and Check Out These College Football Events
The events we discussed above are awesome, but ardent football fans just have more fun when their favorite sport is the center of attention. With the Super Bowl crossed out, we suggest you try out a couple of college football events. Here are two of our favorite events with an explanation as to why they stand out above the competition.
Folsom Field in Boulder, Colorado
All of the places mentioned above tend to be high octane and excitement events. However, some people like their tailgating to be a little more low key. If that’s your style, then you need to check out the college tailgating scene in Boulder, Colorado. The scenery will take your breath away, and the cool weather is perfect for standing over a barbeque. The crisp fall air won’t stop you from working up a sweat at the tailgate tables, but it will build quite the appetite. If you’re looking for a good time without having to be in full party mode 24/7, Colorado is the place for you.
Notre Dame University, Indiana
On the other hand, you may be looking for a tailgating event that has a bit of Irish spirit. If that’s the case, Notre Dame University in Indiana is likely your scene. The school is well known for its faith, academic integrity, and its tailgating scene. Tourists and locals alike feast on beef and chicken fresh off the grill and enjoy a few drinks. This is an event where students and their grandparents feel equally at home, almost as if you had taken a time machine back to the classic days of tailgating. If that sounds appealing to you, then Notre Dame should be at the top of your list for potential tailgating locations.
No one knows tailgating quite like All American Tailgate, and we’re determined to share our knowledge with the world! For high quality, custom made tailgate tables, browse our selection to find something perfect for you. If you want to learn more about tailgating or how to have a better time at your next event, visit our blog for useful tips and tricks. Best of luck in finding an event that fits you to a T!