National Tailgating Day

National Tailgating Day celebrates the pregame gathering known as tailgating: fans meet outside a stadium—often around the tailgate of a pickup truck or the trunk of a car—to share food, beverages, and conversation before a game, usually football. Grilling is a common feature, and chili competitions or recipe challenges can add a little friendly rivalry. National Tailgating Day is observed on the first Saturday in September.

Luke Lorick, founder and CEO of Tailgating Challenge, formed National Tailgating Day in 2016 after noticing that tailgating did not yet have its own holiday. He worked with National Day Calendar to establish an annual observance on the first Saturday of September. According to Tailgating Challenge, the day is meant to celebrate the fun of sharing food and enjoying time with family and friends in a safe, friendly environment. Lorick’s passion for the subject also grew from years of tailgating at University of South Carolina games. He described National Tailgating Day as a way to share that passion.

How to Observe National Tailgating Day

Celebrate by hosting or joining a tailgate before a game. Pack food and beverages, bring grilling supplies, and invite friends or family to gather outside the stadium—or create a tailgate-style get-together at home. Add a game such as cornhole or ladder ball, wear your team’s colors, and share your favorite tailgating memories. If alcoholic drinks are included, follow local laws and venue rules, drink responsibly, and arrange a safe way home. Tailgating Challenge recommends planning for the weather and focusing on the people, food, and fun.

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