It's Tailgate Time

There's something about an exciting college football or soccer game on a beautiful fall afternoon that makes you want to...party. Don't sit inside and drink yourself into a stupor — get outside, enjoy the weather, and throw a tailgate party in the parking lot. You might not get in to see the game, but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy it. A cheering crowd provides great background noise for any happy occasion. Organizing a tailgate isn't quite as simple as sitting in the stands and watching the game, but it doesn't take much to pull off a great one. There's no need to go Martha Stewart crazy and make all kinds of fancyschmancy treats and mixed drinks. At a tailgate, the simple stuff tastes better anyway. Here are the basic things you need to remember to make sure your tailgate is festive, fun, and easy. Get a group of people together and make everyone responsible for one or two items. That way you don't have to blow a lot of cash, you'll have everything you need, and everyone can spread the word to their friends. 1. A Tailgate. It's hard to throw a tailgate if you don't have a vehicle with a tailgate. An SUV or truck is the best option (easy access and plenty of storage) but a car with a big trunk will do in a pinch. 2. Beverages. No need to get fancy, just make sure you have enough. If you're expecting a crowd, a nice cold keg is great. If you don't want to deal with a keg, buy sixpacks or cases and keep them cold in a big cooler. Have some alternative beverages (soda, juice, water) available and cold. If it's a chilly afternoon, bring thermoses of hot cocoa. And don't forget cups! Especially if you have a keg, the more cups, the better. 3. Food. Folks get pretty psyched when there's plenty of food around. Hot dogs and hamburgers fired up on a portable grill are great. Don't forget buns and condiments. If you don't have a grill, try a selection of cold cuts and sandwich bread or get one of those sixfoot subs and let everyone cut off a section. Bring along bags of chips and pretzels, tortilla chips and salsa, and — if you're feeling healthconscious and inspired— cut up some veggies (carrots, peppers, broccoli, etc.) and bring some dip. And finally, bring something to satisfy your sweet tooth. Brownies and cookies are great nomess options. Transport all perishable food in a cooler. 4. Disposable everything. Bring a few trash bags and throw everything away: Paper or plastic plates, cups, utensils, and napkins. (Get the recycled kind — it's better for the environment.) You don't want to deal with a big cleanup, so just get rid of it. Did I mention trash bags? I'll mention them again. Bring trash bags. 5. Table. Setting up a folding table gives you more surface area for food and drinks, so throw one in the back of the truck or car. To make cleanup easy, cover it with a disposable tablecloth and toss it when the party's over. 6. Tent. In case of rain, it's a good idea to have some kind of tent or tarp (plus supports, stakes, and rope to set it up) to keep you dry. But just remember that a tent or tarp will never keep you fully dry and while a wet tailgate can be fun with the right attitude, if you don't want to deal with the hassle, wait for a sunny day. 7. School spirit. There's a reason you're having a tailgate, so show your support for your team. Get a school banner or pennant (or several) and display proudly. Christie Matheson loves a good tailgate.