National Tailgating Day 2025: Activities, Menu & Tips

Every September, fans across America come together to celebrate National Tailgating Day, a holiday dedicated to the joy of game-day gatherings, delicious food, and team spirit. In 2025, this day promises to be bigger than ever, with creative tailgating activities, exciting menus, and traditions that honor the history of this uniquely American pastime.

Whether you're planning to grill outside the stadium, host a backyard watch party, or join friends in a parking lot celebration, this guide will give you everything you need to make the most of National Tailgating Day 2025. From the history and traditions to curated food menus for hot and cold days, and even the best tailgate snacks and drinks, we'll help you celebrate like a pro.

And of course, no tailgate setup is complete without durable, stylish, and hassle-free dinnerware. Check out our NFL, NBA & MLB Bundles Collection for themed plates, cups, and trays that make cleanup easy and keep your game-day tables looking amazing.

When Is National Tailgating Day 2025?

National Tailgating Day always falls on the first Saturday in September, which means that in 2025, it will be celebrated on Saturday, September 6 2025.

This timing couldn't be better — it perfectly aligns with the kickoff of college football season and rolls into NFL pre-season excitement, making it a weekend packed with energy, anticipation, and food-filled gatherings.

Why the First Saturday in September?

Kick off football season with style and tradition.
Honor fans nationwide who've made tailgating an American ritual.
Unify communities — whether at a stadium, parking lot, or backyard — to create a sense of unity.
Celebrate food, fun, and friendship as a season-long pregame tradition.

By dedicating this day specifically to tailgating, fans have an official reason to fire up the grill, deck out in team colors, and enjoy fellowship with family and friends.

How Fans Celebrate the Day

On September 6, 2025, you'll see fans celebrating National Tailgating Day in all sorts of creative ways:

Stadium parking lot parties — the classic form of tailgating.
Backyard tailgate setups for families who want to celebrate at home.
Campus celebrations where college fans gather with classmates and alumni.
Community block parties that turn neighborhoods into cheering sections.
Virtual tailgates — streaming games together while enjoying shared menus and drinks from afar.

Tailgating Essentials for September 2025

Since National Tailgating Day falls at the end of summer, the weather may be hot in some parts of the country but cooler in others. That means your setup should include:

Easy-to-clean dinnerware so you spend less time scrubbing.
Lightweight cups and trays that are perfect for travel and serving.
Team-color tableware that matches your game-day pride.

Luckily, you don't need to search far. Smarty Had A Party offers NFL, MLB, and NBA-themed bundles that make your setup both practical and stylish.

National Tailgating Day History & Traditions

Tailgating may feel like a modern-day sports ritual, but its history goes back further than most fans realize. National Tailgating Day, officially founded in 2016 by Tailgater Monthly Magazine, was created to honor the long-standing tradition of fans gathering before big games. Since then, it has grown into an annual nationwide event, uniting people across states, teams, and sports.

The Roots of Tailgating

The concept of tailgating is over a century old. Fans of the very first college football game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869 reportedly picnicked outside the stadium. Over time, the practice evolved into the lively grill-and-chill events we know today.

Key moments in tailgating history include:

Early college football games where fans enjoyed food and fellowship outside the stadium.
The rise of the NFL in the mid-20th century led to the expansion of tailgating into a national pastime.
The introduction of themed gear and setups — from team-colored tents to custom plates and cups.
The establishment of National Tailgating Day in 2016 gave fans an official date to celebrate their favorite pregame ritual.

Traditions That Define the Day

National Tailgating Day is about more than food; it's about community, loyalty, and fun. Some common traditions include:

Grilling classic foods like burgers, brats, and ribs.
Wearing team colors proudly — from jerseys to face paint.
Decorating with themed tableware that matches your team's spirit.
Playing parking lot games like cornhole, ladder toss, or beer pong.
Sharing food and drinks with neighbors, often making friends with rival fans.

Bringing History to Life in 2025

Fans today honor the history of tailgating by mixing the old with the new. You'll still find timeless staples like BBQ and chili, but you'll also see trendy menus featuring sliders, vegetarian options, or international flavors.

National Tailgating Day Activities for Every Fan

One of the best parts of National Tailgating Day is that there's truly something for everyone — from die-hard sports fans to families who simply enjoy a reason to gather. On September 6, 2025, fans across the country will be turning stadium parking lots, backyards, and even driveways into festive hubs of food, fun, and games.

Classic Tailgating Activities

Traditional tailgating is about more than eating and waiting for kickoff. It's about creating memories with friends and fellow fans. Popular activities include:

Cornhole tournaments — easy to set up and perfect for all ages.
Grill-offs — see who can make the best burger, wings, or ribs.
Team trivia games — test your sports knowledge before the big game.
Music & dance-offs — portable speakers make any lot a party.
Face painting and gear swaps — show off team pride and trade fan merch.

These activities not only entertain but also bring strangers together, uniting fans through the shared joy of tailgating.

Family-Friendly Fun

Tailgating isn't just for adults. Families can enjoy:

Scavenger hunts for kids to find items in team colors.
DIY photo booths with props like foam fingers and themed backdrops.
Board games and card tables for pregame entertainment.
Mini sports challenges — frisbee toss, football throws, or soccer shootouts.

Including family-friendly activities ensures everyone, regardless of age, has a role in the celebration.

Tailgating Made Easier with Smarty Had A Party

No activity is complete without the proper setup. Having sturdy, colorful, and disposable dinnerware ensures your games and meals run smoothly with minimal cleanup.

The Red, Blue, and White NFL, NBA & MLB Set is perfect for patriotic-themed tailgates or for fans of teams like the Bills and Clippers.
Hosting a block-party vibe? The Green and Orange Set adds a bold splash of color that works for both football and baseball gatherings.
Want something classic but striking? Try the White, Black, and Red Set for an edgy look that stands out at any tailgate.

You can explore the entire NFL, MLB & NBA Bundles Collection to find the perfect plates, cups, and trays to fit your party theme. With disposable options that look elegant but clean up fast, you can focus more on fun and less on dishes.

Tailgating Activities for Every Fan

Activity Type	Best For	Examples
Classic Tailgating Games	Adults & college fans	Cornhole, Grill-offs, Team Trivia, Ladder Toss, Music & Dance Competitions
Family-Friendly Fun	Families with kids	Scavenger Hunts, DIY Photo Booths, Mini Sports Challenges, Board Games
Food-Focused Contests	Foodies & grill masters	Best Burger Cook-Off, Chili Contest, Dessert Decorating Challenge
Community Activities	Large groups & block parties	Potluck-style tailgate spreads, Neighborhood BBQs, Shared Music Playlists
Social/Team Spirit	All fans	Face Painting, Gear Swaps, Group Cheers, Team-Themed Decor Competitions

National Tailgating Day Menu & Game Day Tailgate Recipes

No tailgate is complete without a mouthwatering menu. On National Tailgating Day 2025, the food you serve will be just as important as the team you cheer for. The best tailgate menus combine classic comfort foods with a few creative recipes that impress guests, travel well, and deliver big flavor.

Must-Have Game Day Staples

Every tailgate needs its go-to foods. These classics never fail:

Grilled burgers and hot dogs — easy to prep, fast to cook, and crowd-pleasers.
Buffalo wings — spicy, tangy, and a true fan favorite.
Ribs or brisket — slow-cooked for hours, perfect for BBQ lovers.
Nachos with queso and jalapeños — customizable and perfect for sharing.
Potato salad or coleslaw — refreshing sides that balance heavy mains.

Creative Tailgate Recipes for 2025

If you want to add a twist this year, try incorporating:

Sliders three ways — cheeseburger, pulled pork, and veggie.
Taco bar setup with DIY toppings.
Loaded baked potato bites — a finger-food spin on a classic.
Stuffed jalapeños or peppers for a spicy kick.
Dessert dips, such as s'mores or cookie dough dip, served with graham crackers.

Make Your Menu Easy with Disposable Dinnerware

Food tastes better when served in style — and cleanup shouldn't ruin the fun. With disposable trays, cups, and plates, you can serve big crowds without worrying about breaking dishes or packing dirty plates back home.

The Blue, White, and Gold Set pairs beautifully with nachos, BBQ, or wings for a touch of elegance.
For hearty meals like ribs or chili, the Green and Black NFL, NBA & MLB Set provides sturdy plates that won't buckle.
Want to highlight spicy flavors and bold drinks? The Red, White, Black, and Gold Set adds a touch of elegance to your spread.

Explore more in the NFL, MLB & NBA Bundles Collection and make your menu shine with themed essentials.

Tailgate Food for Hot Days: Heat-Beating Menus & Quick Cleanup

September weather can be unpredictable, and in many states, National Tailgating Day 2025 may fall on a hot day. That doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor or comfort. With the right tailgate menu for hot days, you can keep guests cool, energized, and ready for kickoff.

Refreshing Food Ideas for Warm Weather

When the sun is blazing, heavy meals can feel overwhelming. Instead, go for light, fresh, and hydrating options:

Grilled chicken skewers with veggies — easy to prep and lighter than burgers.
Fruit skewers, featuring watermelon, pineapple, and grapes, are refreshing picks.
Cold pasta salads with vinaigrette dressings instead of creamy sauces.
Fresh wraps and sandwiches — turkey, ham, or veggie options keep it simple.
Ceviche or shrimp cocktail cups for a seafood twist.

These recipes are portable, easy to prepare ahead of time, and keep well in coolers.

Cooling Beverages That Double as Decor

Drinks are just as important as food when the temperature rises. Consider offering:

Iced tea and lemonade stations with mix-in flavors.
Sports drinks to keep everyone hydrated.
Frozen slushies or mocktails for a festive, family-friendly vibe.
Infused water jars with cucumber, mint, or citrus.

Serve drinks in color-coordinated cups to tie into your team's theme.

Quick Cleanup Tips for Hot Days

Nobody wants to spend extra time cleaning up in the heat. Disposable dinnerware ensures you can pack up quickly:

The Purple, White, and Green NFL, NBA & MLB Set is perfect for summer-themed spreads with fruit and cold salads.
The Yellow, Black, and White Set offers sturdy plates for grilled chicken or wraps.
The White, Blue, and Black Set works beautifully for chilled seafood or pasta dishes.

Explore our full tableware collection, which is festive, practical, and designed for hot-day gatherings.

Tailgate Food for Cold Days: Chili, Sliders & Cozy Sides

While some parts of the country will be warm on National Tailgating Day 2025, other regions will feel the crisp bite of early fall. Cool weather is actually perfect for hearty, comforting meals that warm you from the inside out. With the right menu, you can transform your tailgate into a cozy pregame feast.

Hearty Mains That Warm You Up

When the temperatures dip, focus on meals that are filling, flavorful, and easy to keep hot:

Classic chili — beef, chicken, or vegetarian versions served in bowls or cups.
Pulled pork sandwiches — smoky and satisfying, great for feeding a crowd.
Mini sliders — cheeseburger, BBQ chicken, or mushroom for variety.
Bratwursts or sausages — grilled and served with warm buns.
Mac and cheese cups — portable comfort food at its best.

These recipes are easy to prep in crockpots or large pans and can stay warm in insulated containers.

Cozy Side Dishes for Chilly Days

Pair your mains with hearty sides that balance the meal:

Baked beans with a smoky flavor.
Roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, and peppers.
Cornbread muffins — perfect with chili.
Cheesy garlic bread for sliders or pasta dishes.
Hot dips like spinach-artichoke or queso.

These sides are filling enough to satisfy but still easy to serve outdoors.

Dinnerware That Handles Hearty Foods

Heavier foods require sturdy, reliable dinnerware that won't bend or break. Smarty Had A Party offers durable yet disposable sets that fit the theme:

The White and Burgundy Set is perfect for chili bowls or hearty sliders.
The Green and Purple Set adds bold color while withstanding heavier portions.
The Black, Purple, and White Set makes cozy meals feel festive while keeping cleanup simple.

Explore the NFL, MLB & NBA Bundles Collection for themed tableware that lets you serve hearty meals with ease, all while showing off your team pride.

Tailgating Game Day Snacks: Make-Ahead & Grab-and-Go

When it comes to tailgating, snacks are the real MVP. Whether you're celebrating National Tailgating Day 2025 at a stadium or hosting a backyard party, the best snacks are portable, easy to prepare ahead of time, and quick to grab between plays. They keep the energy high without slowing down the fun.

Crowd-Pleasing Snack Ideas

Here are some all-time fan favorites you can prep the night before:

Homemade trail mix — a crunchy-sweet mix of nuts, pretzels, and chocolate.
Cheese and charcuterie cups — personal portions of cheese, meats, and crackers.
Pinwheel wraps — tortillas filled with cream cheese, veggies, or deli meat, sliced into bite-sized rolls.
Veggie cups with dip — easy to carry and refreshing during a long game.
Mini meatballs on toothpicks — hot or cold, they're always a hit.
Soft pretzels with mustard or cheese dip — perfect for sharing.

Sweet Grab-and-Go Treats

Balance out savory snacks with easy desserts:

Brownie bites or cookies packaged in napkin-ready portions.
Rice Krispies treats decorated in team colors.
Fruit cups with whipped cream or yogurt dip.
Mini cupcakes topped with sprinkles in your team's colors.

These desserts keep guests energized and are simple to serve outdoors.

Dinnerware That Makes Snacking Simple

Snacks are meant to be quick and easy — which means you need lightweight, disposable cups, trays, and plates to serve them. Smarty Had A Party has perfect solutions:

The Red and White NFL, NBA & MLB Set is ideal for finger foods like pretzels and wraps.
The White, Green, and Black Set works well for veggie cups or fruit portions.
For sweet treats, the Yellow, Purple, and White Set adds festive flair to your dessert table.

Check out the complete NFL, MLB & NBA Bundles Collection to make your grab-and-go game day snacks both practical and stylish.

Shop Smarty Had A Party Tailgate Essentials: Plates, Cups & Trays

The right food and activities are essential, but what truly elevates your National Tailgating Day 2025 experience is your setup. Durable, stylish, and disposable dinnerware not only makes your tailgate look great — it also makes cleanup effortless so you can spend more time enjoying the game.

Plates That Handle Big Flavor

Tailgating menus range from light snacks to heavy BBQ ribs, so you'll want plates that can handle it all:

Sturdy construction ensures plates won't bend under chili or sliders.
Team-color options match your fan gear and party theme.
Disposable convenience means no dishwashing after a long game.

Cups That Keep Drinks Flowing

From soda and beer to mocktails and slushies, the right cups keep everyone refreshed:

Lightweight and durable for both hot and cold beverages.
Color-coordinated designs that show off team spirit.
Disposable ease — no broken glass worries at stadiums.

Trays & Serving Essentials

Presentation matters when serving a crowd. Disposable trays make it simple to transport and display:

Snack trays for chips, pretzels, and veggie cups.
Serving platters for sliders, wings, and BBQ ribs.
Compartment trays for dips and toppings.

Why Choose Smarty Had A Party?

Smarty Had A Party's Tailgate Essentials offer:

Premium quality plates, cups, and trays.
Team-inspired designs to match any sports fan's setup.
Disposable convenience for fast cleanup.
Free shipping on orders over $49.
Lowest price guarantee, making it affordable to host game-day gatherings in style.

Check out the full NFL, MLB & NBA Bundles Collection and gear up for National Tailgating Day 2025 with essentials that make your tailgate unforgettable.

Join the Fun: Share Your Tailgate with #SmartyHadAParty

Tailgating isn't just about food and football — it's about community and creativity. This year, celebrate National Tailgating Day 2025 by showcasing your game-day setup and joining the online conversation. Smarty Had A Party is more than just a tableware brand; it's a community of party lovers, foodies, and fans who know how to make every event unforgettable.

Why Share Your Tailgate?

By posting your table setup, menu ideas, or creative décor, you:

Inspire other fans to elevate their own tailgates.
Showcase your team pride with unique color schemes.
Get featured on Smarty Had A Party's social channels.
Connect with fellow fans nationwide, from college game-watchers to NFL die-hards.

How to Participate

It's simple to join the fun and make your tailgate part of a bigger story:

Set up your table with Smarty Had A Party's tailgate essentials.
Snap photos of your food, tableware, and decorations.
Share them on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
Use the hashtag #SmartyHadAParty to connect with others and get noticed.

Tips for Insta-Worthy Tailgates

Want to ensure your setup stands out online? Try these quick tips:

Select a color theme that matches your favorite team's colors.
Layer your table with trays, plates, and cups for a stylish look.
Add fun details like team flags, napkin rolls, or themed desserts to enhance the ambiance.
Shoot photos in natural light for the best colors and clarity.

With the proper setup, your photos won't just capture memories — they'll inspire fans everywhere to bring more style and spirit to National Tailgating Day 2025.

So go ahead, celebrate big, and don't forget to share it with #SmartyHadAParty.

Celebrate National Tailgating Day 2025 in Style

National Tailgating Day 2025 is more than just a pregame ritual — it's a celebration of food, friendship, and team spirit. Whether you're grilling in a stadium parking lot, setting up in your backyard, or organizing a neighborhood block party, the key to an unforgettable tailgate is excellent food, fun activities, and a setup that looks as good as it feels.

Now it's your turn to bring the excitement to life. Gear up with the NFL, NBA & MLB Bundles Collection from Smarty Had A Party and host a tailgate that's both stylish and practical. With free shipping on orders over $49 and the lowest price guarantee, you'll have everything you need to cheer on your team without breaking the bank.

👉 Ready to create the ultimate tailgate? Shop Tailgating Essentials Now and make this National Tailgating Day your best celebration yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is National Tailgating Day 2025?

National Tailgating Day falls on Saturday, September 6, 2025, observed annually on the first Saturday in September.

2. What is the history of National Tailgating Day?

The day was founded in 2016 by Luke Lorick of Tailgating Challenge in coordination with National Day Calendar to celebrate food, fun, and fandom.

3. What are the best National Tailgating Day activities?

Set up team-themed lawn games, host a brisket or chili throw-down, run a cornhole tourney, trade recipes, and do a “best-decorated tailgate” contest.

4. What should I include on a National Tailgating Day menu?

Balance mains, sides, and sweets: one grillable protein, two crowd-friendly sides, a dip trio, and one handheld dessert—plus drinks and plenty of ice.

5. What tailgate foods work best for hot days?

Think no-melt, refreshing picks: sub sandwiches, fruit skewers, pasta salad, slaw, ceviche, and chilled dips; serve in insulated coolers and sturdy disposable cups.

6. What tailgate foods are best for cold days?

Go hearty and warm: chili bars, baked potato bars, sliders, brats, mac ‘n’ cheese, hot dips, and soups in insulated dispensers with disposable bowls and lids.

7. What are some quick game day tailgate recipes?

Sheet-pan nachos, sliders on Hawaiian rolls, smoked-sausage skewers, queso in a foil pan, buffalo-chicken dip, and brownie bites—easy to prep and transport.

8. How can I simplify cleanup on National Tailgating Day?

Use disposable tableware—plates, cups, cutlery, and serving trays—so you spend more time celebrating and less time scrubbing; shop options at Smarty Had A Party.