The 5 Basics for a Successful Tailgate Party

It's that time again, football games, Bowl parties, College football in your home town, or the racing circuit which draws hundreds of thousands of fans to every race; you have found the right place for fun. Wherever you are and which ever ones you enjoy going to, a Tailgate party is never far away.

The thing is everybody loves a Tailgate Party! Why? What's not to like? You have fun, the excitement of the game, food and alcohol and it's out in the open so you can share with everyone around you.....It is a block party for the area and if the weather's good - you can't beat a good tailgate party.

If you are going to have a good time then there are some items that you cannot do without. Of course it's always better if your team or car wins, but even if they don't, you are there for the fun.

These 5 elements are crucial for the Tailgate party!

First of all, you need a table - trying to juggle everything throughout the game, or using the back of the car just won't work. Don't forget the chairs!

Second, a cooler full or ice, beer, soda and water. You don't want to run out, and you want a variety because drinking beer for 8-10 hours (at a Nascar race) can be too much even for the hardcore. Have some sodas and water to switch to for a break and for those around you who don't drink alcohol.

Third, a grill with utensils. You can grill hot dogs, ribs, steaks, corn on the cob, whatever you want all day long. (Don't forget the charcoal and lighter and keep it all in the same bag.)

Fourth, all the things that tend to be forgotten; tongs, salt and pepper, cigarette lighters, utensils, napkins, plates, cold wraps for cans, extra money for somebody who inevitably needs to go buy something. The best idea is to purchase a plastic container from Walmart or Kmart for $3.99. It will make makes life so much easier. Then keep it all together so you know where things are all day long. This way everybody knows to look in the container.

Fifth, is really up to you. If you want to bring another cooler for the side dishes, you could bring things like potato salad, Mac salad, baked beans, cheese for the burgers, whatever you like, but don't forget the buns for hot dogs, and burgers! Then fit the catsup, mustard, BBQ sauce, and a squeeze bottle of mayo, all in plastic bottles.

Now the party is on! At Nascar Races there is a certain area usually set aside for Tailgate Partiers - and it's a huge area where fans have room to set up. At the major league games, the stadiums will not let you party there in the parking lot, so you have to designate a place to meet your friends.. At college games, you will have to check the fields' rules. Some allow them in the surrounding areas and some don't. Then if you are going to your hometown games at the high school and college fields, be sure to check to find out if you've never been before and are not familiar with their policies. You wouldn't want to be kicked out right when you got everything all set up!

Other than that it is an all out fight for the winning team or favorite car! Everyone has their favorites but while you're cheering them to victory, you'll have the best Tailgate Party around. And you'll have everything you want 'cause you checked the list. ! Go Dolphins!