FEATURE

Football season is in full swing, and fans are getting their game on, with pregame parties taking place in stadium parking lots all over the country. Fans, too, are getting their game on, and the biggest pregame parties are taking place in stadium parking lots. Even football legend and broadcaster John Madden is in on the game with his book, John Madden’s Ultimate Tailgating. There’s an American Tailgating Association, official tailgating games – corn toss, anyone? – and a self-professed Commissioner of Tailgating.

Tailgating 101

Use this checklist to stock up on everything you’ll need for the makings of the best – and easiest – tailgate party ever.

• The Grill. First things first. Without a way to cook the food, there’s no party. Fortunately, portable grills are easy to pack up and take along. Weber’s Go-Anywhere Grill comes in propane-powered gas or, for purists, charcoal. Brinkmann’s Tailgate Grill has foldout side tables to help with prep and serving.
• The Cooler. A great way to show your true team spirit is to pack up your food and drinks in a Scooler. Decorated with your college team’s logo, its compact, cylindrical design, caster wheels and no-ice-required adjustable thermostat make it the perfect choice for tailgating or the backyard.
• The Table. Eating outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t set the table. Casual Living’s 5-piece Tote Set is a foldable table and chairs that seats four, made of lightweight aluminum and packs into a matching tote for easy portability.
• The Weather Guard. Take along a patio umbrella and stand to protect you and your family from strong rays of the sun or to stay dry on a rainy day.
• The Power Source. If you’re taking along a portable stereo, an electric grill or a cooler, don’t forget a generator. Coleman’s downsized, quieter Powermate is made for recreational use and can be used for camping, boating and, of course, tailgating.

You don’t have to leave home to show your team spirit. Take a look at The Home Depot Glidden Team Colors Paint Program. From New England Red to Indianapolis White to Dallas Blue, you can paint any room in the house to keep you in the sporting mood all season.

Go team!