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
Sale
Quik Shade Expedition 10 x 10-Foot Instant Canopy, Slant Leg Outdoor Tent, 64 Square Feet of Shade for 8-12 People - Green
- AMPLE SHADE SPACE: 10' x 10' fully assembled slant leg instant canopy with adjustable dual half awnings provides 64 square feet of shade for 8-12 people
- MADE TO LAST: Sturdy, lightweight construction with a corrosion resistant powder-coated steel, one-piece frame for long-lasting durability
- EASY LATCH SYSTEM: Extra large push/pull latch sliders and leg extenders offer easy adjustment between 3 height positions and allow for peak height of 9'
- QUALITY CANOPY MATERIAL: Super Vent canopy top made with 300 denier polyester fabric with Aluminex-backed top ensures 99% UV protection, water resistance, and cooler shade area
- STORAGE BAG: Convenient 600 denier polyester bag lets you store and transport anywhere with ease
$95.39
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- Camping chairs
No products found.
No products found.
Amazon Basics Folding Camp Chair, Mesh Back, Blue, Large
- COMFORTABLE SEATING: Enjoy the outdoors with this large folding camp chair that features a mesh back
- CONVENIENT BEVERAGE STORAGE: Keep refreshments handy in this camping chair's beverage cooler pouch, which holds up to four, 12-ounce cans
- BUILT-IN CUP HOLDER: Our portable camp chairs include a built-in cup holder for open drinks, plus a side pocket for essentials like sunscreen and snacks
- DURABLE AND STRONG: This folding camp chair's heavy duty steel frame provides reliable strength
- EASY TRANSPORTATION: This large camping chair includes a carrying bag with a shoulder strap for easy carrying and storage
$29.99
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- Poncho
A-MORE Waterproof Raincoat Rain Poncho Lightweight RipStop Hooded Picnic Mat Rain Fly backpack Cover (Blue)-
- 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
Rain Ponchos for Adults Disposable Emergency Poncho with Drawstring Hood for Men Women Clear - 5 Pack
- 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
comiso X26 Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker - Waterproof Wireless Portable Speaker with Punchy Bass, Stereo Pairing, 24H Playtime, for Shower Travel Home Outdoors Gift
- [ 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
YETI Roadie 20 Cooler White
- 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
Igloo Ice Cube 60 Quart Roller Cooler , Ocean Blue
- 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
Sale
![CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag, 50 Can Beach & Travel Car Cooler, Folding Soft Cooler, Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener, Great Car Coolers for Travel, Leak Proof Cooler Bag [Charcoal/Black]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SDqUBbfbL._SL160_.jpg)
CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag, 50 Can Beach & Travel Car Cooler, Folding Soft Cooler, Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener, Great Car Coolers for Travel, Leak Proof Cooler Bag [Charcoal/Black]
- [WHY THESE ROCK]: This soft sided portable cooler keeps your bevvies cold with a premium leakproof liner that doesn't leak like a backpack cooler that uses a thinner liner. Our sturdy but collapsible beach cooler is much lighter & easier to handle than a hard cooler, making it one of your top beach necessities or camping essentials. Our insulated coolers include a bottle opener, multiple pockets & are made from recycled materials
- [IDEAL COLLAPSIBLE COOLER BAG FOR TRAVEL]: From our smallest to our largest 50 can insulated cooler bag, these are a perfect travel cooler for car because the soft-sided cooler can fit more easily in tight spaces than a Styrofoam cooler without worrying about them breaking. This outdoor cooler includes a shoulder strap making it easier than a picnic basket to haul your food and beverages while you enjoy the outdoors
- [STRONG AND RUGGED]: Compared to another can cooler or beach cooler bag on the market, we want you to keep this for years. We designed this hard bottom beer cooler with sturdy hinges that can hold up to 50 cans and 55 lbs. This collapsible cooler bag has loops to attach your portable speaker & car keys for added convenience, something a regular collapsible picnic basket doesn't provide
- [FAMILY-SIZE INSULATED LUNCH BAG]: Use this collapsible car cooler to pack lunch for the entire family on your next road trip with space to hold your napkins and paper plates. Weighing less than 3 lbs, this collapsible cooler bag is 1 of your beach essentials even if you fly because it collapses to just 3 inches.
- [OTHER USES]: Replace your insulated grocery tote bag with this more durable soft ice chest or ditch your picnic basket set because because this cooler bag wont leak and you can use the top side to serve from. Bring this bag to summer sporting events, beach trips or other outdoor excursions
$35.99
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Related: The Perfect Summer Sundress
Food/Cooking
- Grill
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Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner, 4.1 x 21.9 x 13.7 Inches
- 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
Sale
COSCO Fold-in-Half Banquet Table w/Handle, 6ft, White
- Versatile 6 ft indoor table with dimensions of 72L x 29.7W x 29.3H inches, perfect for any event
- All Season Table Top made of durable plastic for indoor and outdoor use, suitable for all weather conditions
- Comfort Handle for easy carrying when folded and locked, making transportation a breeze
- Secure Lock feature keeps table closed during transportation, ensuring safety and convenience
- Lightweight design at 25.5 pounds with folded dimensions of 36.5"(L) x 29.6"(D) x 3"(H) for easy storage and portability
$78.88
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- Cooking Utensils
GRILLART Grill Utensil BBQ Tools Set Reinforced Tongs 3-Piece Heavy Duty Stainless-Steel Barbecue Grilling Accessories, Metal Spatula, Tongs, Fork -Bonus Insulated Gloves (Orange)
- 【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 GUARANTEEN AND GLOVES BONUS】- Every GRILLART product is backed by a full 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEEN. You can try Grillart Grill Tools completely RISK FREE. If our product isn’t for you, simply message us and we’ll make it right. Click the “Add to ℃art” button now. Consider getting TWO - one for you and one for your very best friend.
ROMANTICIST 23pc Must-Have BBQ Grill Accessories Set with Thermometer in Case - Stainless Steel Barbecue Tool Set with 2 Grill Mats for Backyard Outdoor Camping - Father's Day Best Barbecue Gift
- 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.
- High Quality 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.
$37.99
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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
Top: 2018 Deercreek Camping/tailgate; Bottom: 2016 Alpine Valley – Nick & Jeff toasting to DMB probably
Game Options
- Beer Pong
Sale
HEXCUP - Reusable Party Pong Cup Set by PartyPong - 22 Reusable Cups, 3 Balls, & Plastic Game Card
- 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
$18.05
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- Corn Hole
Sale
GoSports Solid Wood Premium Cornhole Set - Choose Between 4 ft x 2 ft or 3 ft x 2 ft Game Boards, Includes Set of 8 Corn Hole Toss Bags
- 100 percent 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)
$87.12
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- Cards
Sale
Hoyle Waterproof Playing Cards, Clear, 1 Deck
- 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
$5.99
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- Ladder Ball
- Football
Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Official Size, Brown
- Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Official Size, Brown
- SIZES: Official size (High School & College ages 14+), Junior size (4th – 6th grade ages 9-12)
- NFL Branded
- Super Grip Composite cover for a premium feel
- Butyl rubber bladder for advanced air retention
$24.95
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- Frisbee
Sale
Discraft Ultrastar Sportdisc 175g Stock Bright Orange
- Weight: 175 grams
- Diameter: 10.75 inches
- Official disc of USA Ultimate (USAU)
- A well-made product from a highly-respected company in the industry
- Contact us for additional details or questions about this product
2015 Alpine Valley Tailgate – BBF Will celebrating Ladder Ball win 🙂
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You have thought of everything for a fantastic tailgate.
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
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.
HOW FUN! I love a good tailgate!