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There is only one reason to wake up early on weekends: to load the cooler with beer, cheese, meat and ice, drive to a giant parking lot and get your tailgate on!

No matter the weather, we Wisconsinites can do this for the better part of a day before spending another three hours watching 22 people fight over an 11-inch piece of pigskin.

And that folks is why tailgating season – occasionally referred to as football season – is the best part of the year.

So, whether it's your first or your twenty-fifth-year tailgating, you’ll want to look at our tailgating guide to make sure you have everything you need (and maybe get some new ideas) on the day of the big game!

 - Light the Grill ASAP!

The moment you get to your spot, the first thing you’ll want to do is heat up your grill. Doing so will allow you to have time to cook, eat, and let the grill cool back down before the start of the game. And, as football season pushes into the winter months, it will give you something to warm your hands with!

 - Ice those Drinks

Pack your coolers full of canned beers and other beverages – but make sure to grab plenty of water as well to stay hydrated. A Bloody Mary is a tailgating staple, especially if you want to up your game. Even with all the fun, please make sure you have a designated driver, to stay sober so that they can get everyone back home safely after the game. We know Packer fans who wouldn’t mind just staying at Lambeau between games, but parking enforcement might have something to say about that.

 - Delegate Food Responsibilities

You don’t want everyone showing up with chips and salsa. Consider making a list and ask members of your “team” what winning treats are they bringing. Plan items like easy-to-eat finger foods, individual servings of chili or soup, pre-made snacks, and of course don’t forget burgers, sausages, skewers and their veggie counterparts. Also, you need to have that legendary taco dip. That’s always a winner.

And remember, we’re all Wisconsinites and too polite to make a firm decision. If you must, assign people which food to bring. Everyone will be happier, and you’ll have your tail(back) covered.

 - Dress the Part!

Whoever you’re cheering for, make sure to deck out your vehicle and yourself with our teams' colors and merch (green and gold of course!). Banners, streamers, and team colors are sure to get some appreciation from everyone around! The bigger, the crazier, the better 😊

 - Games, Games, Games

If you’re a tailgating pro, you know you need to bring the games. The classics are always appreciated, such as Cornhole, Bocce Ball, or even beer pong if you’ve got space for the   table!

Lastly, don’t stress the small stuff! You’re tailgating to have fun on game day after all! Remember to be polite to your fellow fans and throw a few extra Leinie’s in the cooler to pass around to your neighboring tailgaters.

Then once it’s all said and done, sit back and enjoy the football game.