We all love football games; however, the tailgates are what get us ready for the real event. It’s like doing your makeup and hair before going out with your friends — it’s that exciting feeling before the real happening. Some students will just go to the tailgate while others will tailgate hard to be prepare for the game.
The real question is, what is it exactly that makes a good tailgate?
VALLEY gathered information from Penn State students who enjoy hosting tailgates and their opinions mostly aligned on food, company, drinks and music. At the end of the day, without these essentials, it wouldn’t be a real tailgate.
An anonymous student at Penn State reflected on their own experiences attending tailgates.
“I’ve seen tailgates have games like cornhole, cup pong, Jenga, and these things just make tailgates more fun. Even drinking games, you just gotta find a way to keep everyone entertained and engaged”
Anonymous
Something to be aware of thing is that everyone is moving back and forth from tailgate to tailgate. When hosting one, it’s good to be aware that some will stay the whole time, while others will just stop by to say hello. However, this depends on preference; some people would rather stay at one because the walks from lot to lot can be difficult, while others love going back and forth between their friends’ tailgates. The spontaneity of it is what makes a Penn State tailgate stand out.
People enjoy spending time with those they love. One Penn State student explains the importance of who surrounds you at a tailgate.
“Being with my close friends at a tailgate makes it more enjoyable, as it is the people I am comfortable with.”
Anonymous
Another piece to be aware of is timing. As a tailgate host, it’s important to get there about two hours earlier than your guests to have time to get everything set up. However, this also depends on the number of people invited, the hour of the game and how many things the host has to set up.
The beauty of it all is seeing your friends’ parents (or friends of friends), getting to eat whatever you want and the excitement leading up to the game. Hosting a tailgate can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it at the end when you’re surrounded by all the people you’re close with and share the love for football together!
Let us know your thoughts on what makes a good tailgate by tweeting us @VALLEYmag on X!
**VALLEY does not condone underage drinking.
