How to Prepare for an NFL Tailgate Party

NFL matches have become much more than simple events you watch from your sofa. More and more people are now organizing parties and planning long celebrations surrounding NFL games, especially when the playoffs arrive. If you want to join in the fun and prepare for your own NFL celebration, there are a few steps to follow to make sure everybody gets into the spirit of the day.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Food
• Noisemakers
• Whistles
• Drinks
• Decorations
• Horns

Prepare for an NFL Tailgate Party

1. Check the calendar to learn the game dates. Check your favorite sports channel to get the details. If your favorite team is not playing or you can't attend the game, you can still prepare a tailgate party at a picnic area or in your own backyard.
2. Decide whom to invite to the party before you start planning for it. If the party will be for adults only, it will have a much different mood than if kids or teenagers are joining the group. Pick NFL games or toys for the party depending on the guests, and make sure you have a variety of options at hand.
3. Create custom-designed NFL party invitations using special football clip art or pictures of your favorite players. This is especially important if you are holding the party anywhere except outside the stadium. Provide a small printout with a map if people are coming from outside the area.
4. Find decorations with the NFL logo or your favorite team's initials or symbol. If you can't find such decorations, pick some with your team's colors, so you can at least get the spirit of the game going. The official NFL website sells many items you can use at a tailgate party, from coolers to tailgating furniture (see Resources below).
5. Make sure you have enough noisemakers and streamers for everybody. If you are attending a game, take along horns, whistles and noisemakers. Leave them behind in your car, and use them for the post-game celebration party.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't drive under the influence of alcohol. Pick a designated driver. Tailgate parties include lots of alcohol, so you will need somebody to be responsible to get everybody back home safely once the celebration finishes.