Have I mentioned before how much I love the Dave Matthews Band? Every year my husband and I go see them on tour, and one of the best parts is the tailgate! Tailgating before a concert or sporting event is such a great time to be social and hang out with friends and family. It’s the time for food, games, and drinking.
Related: A DMB Kind of Summer
I also view it as a time to make new friends. In 2015 we saw the Dave Matthews Band in Wisconsin at Alpine Valley, the 2nd largest amphitheater in the country. We tailgated all day before the show and then after we decided to fire up the grill again (because it was going to take a while to get out of there). Well, the guys next to us saw us and asked if they could use our grill because theirs got run over. That sparked an instant friendship and they ended up tailgating with us the next day too. And then again in 2016 as well as at other shows.
Before I started going to Dave Matthews Band concerts 8 years ago, I didn’t really know much about tailgating. Now, 31 concerts later, I’d like to think I know a little bit more.
Tailgate Essentials:
Set Up
- Canopy
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- Camping chairs
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- Portable camping chair with polyester mesh fabric panels for cooling ventilation; stylish blue color
- Beverage-cooler pouch (hangs from armrest) holds up to four 12-ounce cans
- Built-in cup holder for holding an open beverage; side storage pocket for sunscreen, binoculars or personal items
- Heavy-duty steel frame provides reliable strength; compact, collapsible chair folds up to fit inside most car trunks
- Dimensions: 28 W x 21 D x 36 H Inches; carry bag with shoulder strap included for easy transport and storage
- Poncho
- VERSATILE RAIN PONCHO---Raincoat is hooded and has smoothly zipper so that you can separate it and use it as a blanket for the grass or ground or use raincoat as a tarp for shade.women men adult rain poncho women men adult raincoat with Hoods
- MULTI-PURPOSE RAINCOAT---Easy to carry, waterproof and durable poncho, use for hiking ,fishing,camping and all of our outdoor activities or even at the amusement park.men women adult rain poncho
- ROOMY and COMFY RAIN COAT-- it's wide enough for you and your a large capacity backpack help keep staying dry, Double Fold size:55" x 41" (L x W).adult women men rain poncho
- SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT RAIN PONCHOS--- Very light weight fit for any hikers raincoat, Rain poncho as a perfect gift from a frequently travel friend.boys girls kids childrens rain poncho
- UNIQUE DESIGNE RAIN JACKET---upgrade version, the 3 in 1 poncho can be used as rain coat, backpack cover or picnic blanket,It's made of super sturdy waterproof nylon tent type material.mens rain poncho womens rain poncho adult rain poncho
- Extra thick – 100% waterproof, 30% extra thicker, a poncho which won't stick you, but a thin one does.
- Lite Package - Each poncho Packed individually it's in own bag, you can put it in your pants, pocket or handbag.
- Suitable For Multi Activities - You will never be unprepared for the sudden rain shower. Perfect for amusement parks, camping, hiking, tailgating, and any other occasions.
- One Size Fit All - Disposable poncho with attached drawstring hood, it's a perfect emergency kit suitable for both adult and youth, men and women, girls and boys.
- Speakers
- [ PUNCHY BASS & 360° SURROUND SOUND ] For COMISO blue tooth speaker, distinct mids and highs from our two precision acoustic drivers delivers excellent stereo sound and enhanced bass from our proprietary passive bass radiator design, helps the speakers deliver transparent bass with great extension, while reducing distortion. So you can fill your room with rich, full-bodied sound. Comiso speakers emit exceptional 360° audio.
- [ ASTONISHING SOUND LOUDER VOLUME ] X26 portable speaker is a compact, room-friendly music player engineered to deepen every listening experience. Distortion-free at maximum volume, perfect for home, dorm room, kitchen, bathroom, car, parties. Streaming music or audio book services from your smartphone and audio device.
- [ TRUE WIRELESS STEREO PAIRING ] Pair two COMISO X26 speakers, you can achieve true wireless Bluetooth pairing for left and right channels separated. Just control the master device, then audio can be played in sync on both devices with double enhanced stereo sound. Enjoy more dynamic sound thanks to a powerful subwoofer for a truly immersive listening experience, Brings a real stereo sounds to your soul.
- [ IPX4 WATERPROOF & WEATHERPROOF BLUETOOTH SPEAKER ] We tested our waterproof speaker for all kinds of situations. There’s no need to panic if you drop it. It's splashproof, rainproof, dustproof, sandproof. This outdoor speaker is perfect for the beach, poolside, car, boat, backyard, patio and golf car.
- [ ULTRA PORTABLE & BUILT-IN MIC & 24 HOURS PLAYTIME ] Portable speaker designed for easier carrying, handheld size, compatible with cup holder. Can be easily slipped into your backpack or bag. Supports up to 24 hours of uninterrupted music Journey at medium level volume With a full charge, whether you' re lounging around the house or doing outdoor activities like hiking camping. The wireless speaker is compatible with multiple devices such as smart phone, tablets, laptops, televisions and more.
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- Cooler
- The YETI Roadie is BYOB’s new best friend with a capacity of up to 14 cans with recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio
- Will keep your ice… well ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design is certified Bear-Resistant
- The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and virtually indestructible so wherever you decide to take it, this portable cooler’s sturdy construction will stand up to the rigors of the journey
- The Roadie, like the Tundra features T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty rubber and made with patented technology so you’ll never see another busted latch
- The Roadie dimensions are 18 ½ in long x 13 5/8 in wide x 14 3/8 in high with an empty weight of 16 lbs
- Ultratherm insulated body keeps cold for a long time
- Push button and locking telescopic handle
- Durable wheels and reinforced tow handle make transporting a full cooler easy
- Molded side scoop handles for ease of loading and unloading
- 60 quart capacity. Exterior Dimensions ( L x W x H )-20 x 18.5 x 20.69 inches. Interior Dimensions ( L x W x H )-Top - 16.75 x 14.5 x 17.25 inches, Bottom - 15.25 x 12 x 17.25 inches
- STRUCTURED - Opens and closes in a SNAP thanks to the built in patented SnapHinge; the perfect ice chest that will stay open even when empty
- COLLAPSIBLE - Sturdy soft sided cooler pops up with ease so you can fill with your meal and beverage essentials; collapse when not in use for easy storing just about anywhere
- VERSATILE - Perfect beach bag for toting snacks and drinks for a day in the sun; great for bringing lunch into work; grocery shopping, or as a travel cooler for a road trip with family
- ACCESSORIES - Integrated bottle opener means one less thing to pack; the front zippered pouch is great for extra storage of valuables; and side handles as well as padded top handle makes toting a breeze
- DIMENSIONS - Measuring 18.25" L x 12.25" W x 12" H and weighing 2.25 lbs. when empty; the cooler has a weight capacity of 55 lbs. and room for 50 cans
Related: The Perfect Summer Sundress
Food/Cooking
- Grill
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- Cooking power: Up to 20,000 total BTUs. Fits a 12-inch and 10-inch pan at the same time
- 2 adjustable burners: For precise temperature control
- Wind-blocking panels: Shield burners from wind
- Pressure regulator: Pressure-control technology for consistent performance, even in extreme conditions
- Runtime: Up to 1 hour on high on one 16.4 oz. Propane cylinder (sold separately)
- Gas/Coal
- Firestarter/ Lighter
- Table
- Item Dimensions : 72L x 29.7W x 29.3H inches. Material : Plastic. Assembly required
- Secure Lock - Keeps table closed when transporting
- Comfort Handle - Comfortable to carry when folded and locked
- All Season Table Top - Indoor and Outdoor Use
- Lightweight - 25.5 pounds makes this table easy to carry
- Cooking Utensils
- 【25% THICKER STRENGTHENED TONGS】- Made from 25% thicker professional grade stainless-steel, you'll be amazed how sturdy the tool feels in your hand. Scalloped tongs allow handling of delicate foods, like fish, without tearing. With these trusty bbq utensils at your side get ready to shorten work of even the most fully loaded grill, you can get back to the party relaxedly!、
- 【THE MOST PERFECT STURDY MULTI-FUNCTION SPATULA】- 18-inch long Multi-function Massive spatula helps you conquer your food without grilling your hands. The huge head for flipping even the biggest burger, the serrated cutting edge equaled to any steak knife for slicing your meat or scraping it away from a sticky grate. Even a bottle opened to make sure the Grill Master is always hydrated!
- 【SUPER SHARP FORK】- The super sharp fork tines for skewering food. Easily skewer, grab or flip whole chickens, racks and briskets. Never worry about bending, breaking or rusting again. They are perfect accessories for cooking, baking or making salads.
- 【LOOK LIKE A PRO】- SHOW YOUR FRIENDS WHO’S “THE MAN” ON THE GRILL whether you use gas, charcoal, infra-red, electric or rotisserie. Cast iron, steel or ceramic. These utensils even great for indoor kitchen use, also great for camping outdoors. No matter how gruesome the battle for your weekend grilling warrior, chuck them in the dishwasher and they will shine again!
- 【100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE AND GLOVES BONUS】- Every GRILLART product is backed by a full 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. You can try Grillart Grill Tools completely RISK FREE. If our product isn’t for you, simply contact us and we’ll make it right. Click the “Add to Cart” button now. Consider getting TWO - one for you and one for your very best friend.
- Complete Grill Accessoiries Set - Spatula, fork, tongs, basting brush, meat thermometer, grill brush, 2 grill brush heads, 2 grill mats, 8 corn holders, 4 skewers, aluminium case.
- Superior and Durable Grill Utensils - All bbq accessories are made from professional grade stainless steel that resists heat and stands the test of time.
- Portable and Convenient Barbecue Set for Outdoor Grilling - Compact size kit is lightweight to carry which is perfect for camping, picnics and urban dwellers.
- Perfect Christmas Ideas for Everyone on Your List - This deluxe grill tool set with case can be absolutely made for gift presentation for family and friends on Christmas.
- The ROMANTICIST promise of quality and innovation lives on every barbecue tool we manufacture. Now find here the grill tools and accessories made specially for you.
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- Solo Cups
- Paper Towels/Wet Wipes
- Paper Plates
- Trash bags
- Bottle Opener
- Eating utensils – forks, spoons, knives
Related: My Reverse Bucketlist
Game Options
- Beer Pong
- Includes 22 HEXCUP cups and 3 pong balls - 20 HEXCUP game cups + 2 HEXCUP water cups + 2 white balls and 1 red, "On Fire" ball
- Patented, honeycomb-inspired, hexagonal design for a perfect beer pong rack every time
- Brilliantly designed cup bottom prevents cups from floating/ghosting on wet surfaces
- No more gaps in between cups make for quicker games, more fun
- Durable plastic resists cracking with re-enforced lip and corners to Resist splitting
- Corn Hole
- 100% SOLID WOOD: Premium craftsmanship boards, varnished surface (easily painted or customized) made using pine wood frames and featuring mitered corner joints; Boards are ready to use without additional work required
- TAILGATE SIZE: Includes 2 tailgate size (3 feet x 2 feet) cornhole boards, 8 all-weather regulation bean bags, premium carrying case, and rules
- EVENT DAY FAVORITE: Hours of fun with friends and family at tournaments, tailgates, holiday weekends, cookouts, campsites, and more
- PERSONALIZE YOUR SET: Customize the boards with your own decals and designs (not included) to make for the perfect cornhole set
- ALL-WEATHER BEAN BAGS: Includes 8 premium regulation size bean bags (4 red + 4 blue, no logos)
- Cards
- WATERPROOF PLAYING CARDS: Elevate your game night with our Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards. Our waterproof cards are designed to keep the fun rolling, regardless of the weather or location. Prepare to game on in style, come rain or shine, or accidental spill
- PREMIUM PLASTIC CARDS: Our plastic playing cards feature an exquisite, opaque design, printed on premium plastic card stock. This exclusive aspect ensures high visibility and a luxurious feel without the worry of anyone seeing your cards
- FLEXIBILITY AND EASE: Unlock seamless shuffling with our playing cards that remain flexible, even when wet. These high quality playing cards simplify the game, making every shuffle an effortless glide
- MADE TO LAST: With our waterproof deck of cards, durability meets convenience. These cards are sturdy enough to withstand intense play, yet soft enough for comfortable handling. Plus, they're easily hand washable for extended longevity
- PERFECT FOR ALL OCCASIONS: Turn any outing into a playful escape with these waterproof, plastic playing cards. Whether you're at the lake, beach, camping or tailgating, this deck of cards is your go-to game companion
- Ladder Ball
- Football
- Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Official Size, Brown
- NFL Branded
- Super Grip Composite cover for a premium feel
- Butyl rubber bladder for advanced air retention
- Frisbee
- The world standard for the sport of Ultimate
- Official and exclusive disc of the USA Ultimate Championship Series since 1991.
- Listed among the 31 things all men should own by Esquire magazine
- 175 grams
- Foil color on the disc will vary
Don’t Forget
- Sunscreen
- Bottled Water
- Lots of Ice
I didn’t include any actual food items because I feel like that’s an entirely different, more extensive list. These are just the essentials and things to get you started for your tailgate.
What are your favorite tailgate items? Let me know in the comments below!
Christina is a twenty-something living with her beagle, Mash, and husband, Nate in their van. She loves traveling, shopping, art, and photography. She’s also a vegetarian, pop-culture enthusiast, book-lover, and Dave Matthews Band fanatic. Catch her somewhere around the country in a converted camper van or at home in Florida for a visit.
Patricia G. says
It sounds like everyone was having a good time! I have never tailgated before, but it is an experience I would like to try someday. I live near Chicago, so maybe if I get a chance, I would tailgate with some friends to watch the Bears. 🙂 I would also bringing sleeping gear (i.e sleeping bags, etc..) in case one stays overnight.
Christina says
Oh yeah that’d be fun! I’ve never done it before a football game, only concerts. Camping gear like sleeping bags and tents would be good too if you can sleep overnight.
Luci says
Really great tips. Wearing clothing that is light in fabric or light in color while you are out so you won’t overheat. I’ve never been to a tailgate, but it seems like fun.
Christina says
Yes, definitely wearing something light because you’ll be in the heat all day, that’s a good one. Tailgating is so much fun but I’ve only ever done it for concerts. But I know a lot of people do it for football games and other sporting events. I feel like most people use it as a way to get drunk before an event but I just like to socialize.
jill conyers says
You have thought of everything for a fantastic tailgate.
Daneisha Smith says
Okay girl! I am officially ready for my next tailgate thanks to you! I’m literally excited that I will finally be prepared! Thank you so much for this post! And by the way, I love the Dave Matthews Band as well!
http://www.officiallychic.com
Christina says
Yayy!!! That’s so awesome, a fellow DMB fan I love it! I hope you’re going to see them on tour and tailgate haha.
rebekah says
HOW FUN! I love a good tailgate!