Football season is arguably the most wonderful time of the year and at the University of Florida, Gator fans know all too well that tailgating is a necessary part of the game. The tailgate sets the tone for the entire day, and gets you in the mood to cheer on the Gators to a victory. If you're unfamiliar with a Gator tailgate, its easy for it to get the best of you if you're unprepared. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you make the most out of your tailgate (and don't end up face down in a bush somewhere before the game even starts.)
1. Plan your outfit accordingly
For girls, the outfit is a crucial aspect of a tailgate, as it is a time for lovely ladies to break out their trendiest orange and blue ensembles. When choosing an outfit for a game, you have to take into consideration what the weather will be and how important the game is, aka how many people will see you in your outfit. Girls deliberate and plan out their outfits long before football season even starts, or might wait last minute to borrow something from a friend. For guys, outfits generally consist of Gator polos and khakis, or maybe a Hawiian shirt if they're feeling crazy. Either way, it's important to feel good about what you're wearing on game day.
2. Eat something!
It's a rule of thumb that drinking on an empty stomach is never a good idea, yet tailgate newbies may be unaware of this misnomer. If you're going to be chugging natty all day, it's a good idea to take a break at some point and eat a burger to soak up all the alcohol rapidly saturating your stomach. You don't wanna be the guy who can't hang and ends up puking in the alley on the way, so make sure toeat at least something on game day. Tailgates usually have delicious food anyway to take advantage of the mac n cheese and pulled pork sandwiches because they run out quickly.
3. Take cute pictures
College game days are some of the best of your life, so you should document them accordingly. I promise you will end up looking back being glad you have evidence of the time you funneled beer from a two story window. Tailgates definitely entail major debauchery, but also will be some of the best memories you make (or don't remember) which is all the more reason to take pictures. Stand on the bar, stand next to a cute guy, or stand next to your bff, but snap a selfie for snapchat while you're at it. You need proof for your social media followers that you actually attended a UF tailgate.
4. Be a good dancer
Whether or not you actually have any dance capabilities whatsoever, one of the key activities at a tailgate is dancing. Even if you aren't coordinated, as soon as you have a few drinks, you will have convinced yourself that you actually are Beyonce and can attempt any dance move you want. Everyone else around you will be having fun dancing, too, and so it's a good time to let loose and shake what your mama gave ya.
The best tailgates consist of loud music, good food, fun people, and most of all, Gator fans. I hope next time you attend a UF tailgate, these tips will help you stay functioning and happy and hopefully will allow you to make it into the game. All there is left to say is go Gata.
