Game Day Eats: Tailgate Food Etiquette

There is something both cozy and nostalgic about tailgate food. It immediately takes us back to our childhood when dad grilled hot dogs, and grandma added her famous bean dip to the football spread. There’s always one special dish that someone brings to every celebration, which everybody looks forward to enjoying.

For many, tailgating traditions, like Christmas and Easter traditions, feel like “home.” The food, the family, the friends, and the years of memories, all happening in the most casual setting = game day fun. But even at a casual affair, there are always questions and friendly faux pas that can get you flagged before kickoff. Here are some unwritten rules to consider when it comes to tailgate food etiquette.

Bring Enough to Share

Whether you are bringing a drink or contributing a food item, think in terms of multiples. Ask the host how many people will be attending and plan accordingly. If there is an enormous number of guests, you probably won’t be expected to feed the stadium, but think casserole rather than single serving size. Your contribution should feel generous and thoughtful.

Utensils are Not Optional

Along with the food, bring what guests will need to pick it up from the tray and eat it with. It could be anything from salad tongs to fancy little toothpicks. Bringing the food dish and taking care of the details will garner you an MVP guest spot at the tailgate party. Gracious guest etiquette means not making your host dig around the pantry and drawers for extra supplies.

Make it Nostalgic

If the tailgate is indoors, think of foods that can withstand an hour on the table. Deviled eggs, potato salad, and macaroni salad are grandma’s favorites. There are plenty of foods that are synonymous with nostalgia. Among them are queso and chips, burgers and hot dogs, seven-layer dip, hot sausage cheese bites, puppy chow, brownies, and snickerdoodles.  

China, Paper, or Plastic: Doesn’t Matter

It’s the host’s decision on what works best for their particular party. A backyard tailgate may call for sturdy plastic plates, a parking lot tailgate may be a better fit for disposable and recyclable options. A cozy fall tailgate at someone’s home may warrant a pretty Spode pattern where the guest can feel welcome, homey, and warm. The only requirement is appreciation for the host’s invitation and the effort to include you in their gathering.  

The Flow of Food Depends on the Host’s Lead

Let the host determine when food will be served and when dessert can be started. In other words, if someone brings a cake or a tray of brownies, let the host decide when the buffet line starts and when the cake can be cut. Ask the host where they would like you to put the food item. The host may have a vision, and opening your dessert and putting it on the table may not be the game plan.

Don’t Overstay Your Welcome

When the game is over, it’s over. Unless you’re helping the host clean up, lingering long after most guests have gone is impolite. Take your empty plate of food and utensils, thank the host for the great time, and call it a day. If you want to take more of someone’s dish, don’t ask unless the host offers first.

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