It’s the most wonderful time of year: tailgate season. It’s the time of year when we pretend to celebrate the mediocrity of our football team while throwing some of the wildest parties of the year. Not to mention this also marks the return of the debauchery that is Breakfast Club. With this being my senior year and the final year for so many Purdue Greeks, here are my three tips for those of you participating in tailgate this season.

1.     Forget About Sleep – It’s better you realize and accept this now. The less sleep you get during the weekends this fall, the better of a time you’re going to have. Breakfast Club goers typically wake up around 5 AM to begin their festivities, and wake typically gets pulled around 6 or 7. Your body is going to be telling you no, but your mind and liver are going to be screaming yes. Give in, take a couple fewer hours of sleep, and go party with all your brothers or sisters. Plus, you can nap during the game, because really who goes anymore?

 2.     Change Your Wardrobe – During the school week we sport pretty normal clothes to classes and meetings, but once Saturday morning dawns on us, things change. I know a lot of people aren’t really into themed parties and events, but this is where you HAVE to go all out. The more ridiculous you look, the better. This is also a great opportunity for you and your brothers or sisters to do some bonding by getting creative with group costumes. Invite over your football buddies and pre-game the bars. For those under 21, get into a theme too. Show off how strong your Hawaiian shirt game is, give in to the fact that you look ridiculous wearing Chubbies, and come up with crazy themes of your own. Football season only comes once a year so you can afford to get a little weird with it.      

3.     Watch Your Back – While we should be trying to have the best time ever during this beautiful fall season, be sure to be cautious about a few things. Make sure that if your brothers or sisters do get a little out of hand, help them out or find someone who can. Excise police have been increasing in numbers over the past few years, and had a record number of tickets given out last year. Be smart, but as long as you aren’t breaking too many laws, you’re sure to have a great time.    Each Saturday of tailgate season feels like Christmas morning. Except instead of waking up to presents, we’re greeted with drinks and a day of crazy parties and hopefully a win from the Boilers. Have a great tailgate season, Greeks.    

For more tips on how to get the most out of this tailgate season and to hear a firsthand account of the madness, follow me on Twitter @Josh_Klinger and check out my other article at www.theodysseyonline.com/Purdue.