As football season is kicking into high drive, and everyone is participating in game days, there is one trend that brings everyone together: tailgating. This is a pastime that has been around for many years and is meant to unite fans while eating some delicious food and getting ready for the big game. So, what is so great about tailgating, and why is it so vital to football season?
The most crucial part of tailgating is the food. At any game day tailgate, whether you are right outside the stadium or in the comfort of your own garage, you can see an assortment of wings, dips, fried chicken and desserts for miles. This is especially appealing for college students because who doesn’t love an excuse not to eat dining hall food?
Another aspect that adds to the overall aura of a tailgate is the sense of fellowship and community that one gets from just being a part of the experience. Here at Clemson, tailgates are all about being with family and friends, and no one will ever feel excluded. You can be a random stranger walking around almost any tailgating lot, and most likely, you will be asked if you would like something to eat or drink by someone you have never met before . At a tailgate, everyone is family!
I think everyone can agree that at a first glance of a tailgate, you can tell how entertaining it will be. The tailgates at Clemson are known for their huge TVs, entertainment set-ups, bars, corn-hole stations and even the occasional porta potty. Everyone loves the idea of a TV setup at a tailgate. All of the football fans are here to see the Tigers play, of course, but they also want to see all the other games that are on. Well, with the classic flat-screen TV setup that can be seen at most tailgates, you can have the best of both worlds. You get a fun-filled time where you can see your team and all the other college football teams at the same time.
The start of football season is the most excruciatingly hot time of the year. Tailgating gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy yourself outside but under the cool shade of what we all can agree looks like a competition for who can bring the largest tent. You may even see the occasional mist fan.
The feeling of overwhelming school spirit is one of the best aspects of a tailgate. Everyone is there for the same reasons: to make new friends and to cheer on the Tigers! From newborn babies to alumni over the age of eighty, everyone has something in common.
The trend of tailgating makes football season a great time of the year. The atmosphere and overall game day experience would not be the same without it. Going to or watching a football game is great, but the friendships and experiences that you will have at a tailgate will last for seasons to come.
