Opinion
Your Winning Game Plan: How to Throw an Epic Utah Football Tailgate
In Utah, college football isn’t just a sport; it’s a deeply ingrained part of our culture. When fall arrives, Saturdays are sacred, dedicated to a ritual of camaraderie, competition, and community pride. And the heart of that ritual is the tailgate. It’s a full-sensory experience—the smell of the grill, the sight of a sea of team colors, and the sound of shared laughter and anticipation. It’s a tradition built on other traditions, from secret family recipes to, for some adults, the celebratory cigars shared among friends after a big win. It’s all part of the game day tapestry.
A great tailgate turns a simple football game into an all-day event. It’s the ultimate pre-game warm-up, but pulling it off requires a solid game plan. Whether you’re cheering in a sea of Ute red or Cougar blue, here’s how to host a tailgate party that will be remembered long after the final score.
Set the Scene: Show Your Colors
Your tailgate spot is your home base for the day, so make it a beacon for fellow fans. The first step is to stake your claim with your team’s colors. A pop-up tent in crimson or royal blue is essential for providing shade and a clear gathering point. From there, go all out with flags, banners, and even team-colored tablecloths, plates, and napkins.
Beyond the decorations, think about the practical setup. You’ll need the essentials:
- A reliable portable grill.
- At least two coolers: one for drinks and one for raw food.
- Comfortable chairs for everyone.
- A sturdy folding table for the food spread.
Fuel the Fandom: The Tailgate Menu
While burgers and hot dogs are classics for a reason, a truly epic Utah tailgate often features some local flavor. The key is to have a menu of foods that are easy to prepare on-site and easy to eat while standing and socializing.
Consider making a crowd-pleasing side dish ahead of time, like a batch of classic Utah funeral potatoes that you can keep warm. Many local tailgaters are masters of the Dutch oven, perfect for cooking up chili or cornbread. And don’t forget the sweets—if you’re a BYU fan, bringing a box of “Cougar Tails” (extra-long maple bars) is always a legendary move. For endless inspiration on easy-to-make crowd-pleasers, recipe sites like Allrecipes have a deep playbook of game day favorites.
Location and Logistics: Know the Rules of the Game
Every stadium has its own specific set of rules for tailgating, and you don’t want to be the one who gets shut down before the party even starts. Before you go, be sure to check the official athletics website for your team for the most up-to-date policies.
For example, the University of Utah has designated tailgating lots with specific rules about timing, space, and what is permitted. Knowing the official start time for tailgating is crucial. The cardinal rule of a great tailgate is to arrive early. This gives you plenty of time to secure a good spot, set up your gear without being rushed, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
Game Time Entertainment: More Than Just the Pregame Show
The time before kickoff is for more than just eating and drinking; it’s for building the energy for the game. Keep your crew entertained with some classic tailgating games. A cornhole set or a ladder toss game is easy to transport and perfect for some friendly competition. Bringing a football to toss around is another must-have.
Don’t forget the soundtrack. A good portable, battery-powered speaker is an essential piece of gear. Create a high-energy game day playlist ahead of time with a mix of classic stadium anthems and upbeat hits to set the mood for a victory.
A great tailgate is all about preparation. By planning your food, gear, and location in advance, you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the camaraderie and excitement that make college football Saturdays in Utah so special.
