National Tailgating Day
Tailgating turns any game day into a full-blown event. Long before kickoff, people gather outside stadiums, firing up grills and laying out snacks.
Drive pre-game season sales by positioning tailgating essentials—grills, coolers, snacks, team apparel, and beverages—as must-haves for the ultimate game-day experience.
- Share user-generated tailgate photos with #NationalTailgatingDay to build community and FOMO around your brand
- Launch a 'Tailgate Recipe Challenge' featuring your food/beverage products with influencer judges and prizes
- Create a 'Tailgate Essentials Checklist' guide (grills, coolers, snacks, drinks, games) and cross-promote with retail partners
- Run flash sales on game-day gear, coolers, and party supplies the week leading up to the first Saturday in September
In 2016, Luke Lorick created National Tailgating Day.
He leads Tailgating Challenge, a group that celebrates outdoor gatherings and sports culture. Lorick wanted a special day to honor the fun fans bring to parking lots across the country. His idea quickly caught on.
Now, every year, people recognize the joy of sharing food, playing games, and cheering for their teams—even before the game begins.
He chose the first Saturday in September for a reason. That time marks the start of football season. It gives fans the chance to kick things off with energy and excitement.
The day celebrates more than just snacks and coolers. It focuses on bringing people together. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just enjoy a good cookout, tailgating welcomes everyone.
Since its start, this celebration has grown across the U.S. Sports lovers, families, and friends all take part in different ways. Some set up grills early in the morning.
Others pull out bean bag toss games and team flags. Each group adds something special to the event. National Tailgating Day continues to highlight how much fun can happen outside the stadium.
Try New Recipes
Elevate your tailgate menu by introducing unique dishes. Consider grilling lobster tails or preparing a flavorful chili to surprise your guests.
Organize Friendly Competitions
Host a chili cook-off or a recipe challenge among friends. These contests encourage culinary creativity and add excitement to your gathering.
Explore Innovative Games
Incorporate new games like Beer Pong Toss or ChuggerKnights to entertain attendees. These activities can add a fresh twist to traditional tailgating fun.
Embrace Team Spirit
Dress in your team’s colors and decorate your tailgate area with banners and memorabilia. This fosters a spirited atmosphere and showcases your support.
Share on Social Media
Capture memorable moments and share them online using the hashtag #NationalTailgatingDay. This connects you with a broader community of enthusiasts celebrating nationwide.