Nothing is more refreshing than a new football schedule. Past losses are wiped free, and anything is possible. There is a powerful feeling of hope at this time of year. It’s contagious and this is our South.

“College football is not like religion, it’s more important than that.”
- Unknown

We are not sure who coined that phrase, but it certainly goes a long way in describing how Southerners feel about football. We absolutely love our football! Perhaps it’s the spirit of competition or the need to belong to something greater than ourselves, regardless the reason football is king in the South. From Friday night lights to college tailgating and NFL teams, we love it all.

If there is anything to know about football in the South, it’s that tailgating is serious business steeped in long traditions that vary by school. Whether you are at The Grove at Ole Miss or sailgating with the VOLS Navy on the Tennessee River before a game you are sure to discover the regional flavors that make these traditions so special.

To prepare for the start of this football season…

HERE ARE SOME TAILGATING ESSENTIALS:

A perfect outfit in your team’s colors!
A clear purse
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Bug Spray
A hat
Tent
Folding chairs
Folding table
A wagon- to haul the goods if you are walking around
An ice chest filled with your favorite beverages and lots of water because it’s HOT!
Ice chest with (already prepared) food to grill.
Bottle opener/Corkscrew
Coozies
Snacks
Battery powered fan
Hand wipes
Hand sanitizer
Small first aid kit
Phone chargers
Small bag for trash
Tailgate grill (Fire extinguisher)
Propane or charcoal
Utensils/BBQ tools
Paper goods (Plates, napkins, paper towels, cups)
Speakers or entertainment system
Games
Extension cords
Décor-flags, rugs, pom-poms, or anything else needed to make your tailgate look like home!
YOUR TICKETS!!

TO PACK AN ICE CHEST:

Stack bottles and cans at the bottom of the ice chest.
Pour fresh ice over cans and bottles
Put tailgating food on top of ice in airtight containers
Large plastic tubs are great to store the non-perishable items throughout the year. Be sure to restock before putting them away so they are ready to go for the next home game.

Football season is here!

What would you add to this list? Let us know!

And last but not least…Geaux Tigers and Geaux Cajuns!