Tailgating is a melding of several great American loves. The love of sports, the love of cars (specifically trucks), the love of grilling, and the love of community. Nowhere else can the marriage of these things be so wonderfully displayed than in the parking lot outside of a football stadium just hours before the big game. The key to having the most popular tailgate party in the lot is in how well you connect with this community.

There are several factors which will make you the hit of the pre-game festivities.

Spirit:
This may seem obvious, but chances are that you will not be very popular if you boldly display the colors of the visiting team around your area. The tailgating community is gracious but anything but disloyal. If you are rooting for the home team, this is your chance to go nuts. Display banners, play fight songs, and wear enough body paint to be seen from space. Everyone enjoys getting pumped up for the game, and any energy you can inject would be welcome.

Friendliness:
Tailgating is an opportunity to see and be seen. As people walk by make sure you wave or high-five people. If they seem to be eyeing your food, be sure to offer them some. It helps if you're grilling something unique and easily shared. If you happen to see a fan from the other side walking by, make sure you give them a hard time, but make it fun and friendly.

Originality:
The tailgating community is not easily impressed. Chances are they've seen it all. Think of some way to stand out from the crowd, whether it be from a unique food item or display or just from your great enthusiasm.

When you spread the cheer, it naturally comes back to you. Having a great day of tailgating will make a victory in the game that much sweeter and any loss blunted in its sting.

Learn more about this author, Nathan Kim.
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