The Atlanta Beer Snob's Guide to Tailgating UPDATED!

Ok, college football season is right around the corner and me being a responsible football fanatic could not let the season start without a slight preview as to how I do things when I tailgate and pre-game.

First:

What time to arrive for the tailgate?

Easy, as early as possible. Doesn't matter if it is a noon start or an 8pm start. Get there at 8am. My wife always complained about this until I pointed out that I only get to do this maybe 5 times a year and that she secretly enjoyed it anyways. I know 12 hours of tailgating may seem like forever but if you have planned correctly then it will go by in a hurry.

Where to tailgate?

As they say in real estate is all come down to location, location, location. If you can go and scope out your chosen spot a week before the game. Know where you are going to park, how bad is traffic going to be getting there, where are the nearest bathrooms, where are the nearest power outlets, and are there going to be plenty of other like minded fans in the area? All of these are very important in picking out a spot. For my Georgia Tech tailgates we have used pretty much the same spot for the last 5 years. Nice open green space, easy place to park, good access to bathrooms and power outlets and a good (but not overcrowded) number of other Tech folks that tailgate in the same area (many happen to have been tailgating there just as long as us). For away games pre-tailgating scouting and some inside information is a must. If you know someone who has been to games a (fill in the blank) stadium before, ask them the best places for an away fan to tailgate. Used local knowledge to our advantage for tailgating prior to the GT vs. Auburn game in 2005. Knew where we could park and found out that you could stake out your tailgate spot Friday afternoon before the game.

Food?

Yes. We split is up with our group. Menu can vary but usually involves grilling, meat, chili, more grilling, more meat ect. Breakfast can be bagels or you can cook if you really want to get into the spirit. Always bring post-game snacks as well.

Beer and other Refreshments?

Depends on your taste. We have recently moved towards higher class beer for our tailgates since we are not looking to pound a case before the game. So pick something that meets your tastes but that isn't too heavy. As for in game drinking, Bourbon or Tennessee Whiskey are the best bets.

Passing the Time Pre-Game?

Ok, there is a lot you can do to pass the 8 or so hours you may have before the game. A Semi-Athletic game helps pass the time and keeps you a bit active to ward off and alcohol induced sleepiness. Tossing the football around is ok but you can't hold a beer while doing it. Instead I prefer Beer Bocce. What is Beer Bocce you may ask? Well my definition of Beer Bocce (I'll post some instructions later) is a game that was introduced to me through my fraternity in college. Needless to say the rules are pretty loose and it involves plenty of drinking. Imagine bocce but with consequences. Other games that are acceptable: Sack Toss (I refuse to call it Cornhole), Beer Pong (Tricky on windy days), Ladder Ball , and any other game that can be played holding a beer.

Most important thing to remember about game day, pace yourself. You want to make it to the game and remember most of it!