For those introducing themselves for the first time to America’s favorite sports pastime—tailgating— in the simplest form, it seems like kegs of beers, burgers, and amped-up football fans rallying before the game. But more than just a pregame party, tailgating is a complex community-building exercise that dates back to ancient harvest festivals.

A 2012 study by John Sherry, a University of Notre Dame cultural anthropologist, shows that modern-day tailgating parking lot parties are tied to harvest celebrations in ancient Rome and Greece and picnics during Civil War battles.

In the 1950s, America witnessed the mass production of portable grills and coolers, an increased rate of car ownership, and the emergence of football games equipped with spacious parking lots as the epicenters of this cultural shift. This transformative era marked the rise of tailgating as a beloved American tradition.

Today, from coast to coast, America hosts some of the most extraordinary tailgate parties that transcend sports, where camaraderie, culinary delights, and unwavering team spirit come together. And it’s not limited to just football games and NASCAR, oh no. It turns out even opera fans in America love a good tailgate.

Here’s our list of the very best tailgating parties in America:

College Football Tailgates

The Grove at Ole Miss

Considered by many the “holy grail” of college football tailgating, The Grove at Ole Miss on a game day turns into a sea of red, blue, and southern charm. In Oxford, Mississippi, on the University of Mississippi campus, The Grove is where the action is before any big Rebels football game. Covering 10 acres, this spot is where fans and alumni set up elaborate spreads featuring Southern culinary delights rather than just the typical burgers and beers. What’s unique is how everyone dresses up, giving the whole event a festive, almost formal feel. It’s a blend of excited anticipation for the game and a cherished tradition, making The Grove the heart of the Ole Miss game day experience.

LSU Tiger Stadium

Head to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on any given fall Saturday, and a wave of purple and gold will consume you. That’s the signature mark of LSU’s Tiger Stadium, or “Death Valley,” as the locals love to call it. The massive stadium—one of the biggest in the college football scene— gets filled with over 100,000 fans, creating a mix of sheer excitement and a bit of nerve-wracking energy, especially for the visiting teams. The tailgate scene at LSU is a world in itself. You’ve got endless rows of tents, each bursting with activity, mouth-watering scents of Cajun cuisine, and the vibrant sounds of jazz and zydeco music, all setting the stage for that authentic Louisiana vibe.

NFL Tailgates

Lambeau Field

At Lambeau Field in Green Bay is where you’ll see the Packers fans, known far and wide as “cheeseheads,”—famous for their warm, friendly Midwestern vibe and some serious team loyalty—doing their thing before the game starts. Every pre-game, there are countless rows of cars and trucks in the parking lot, grills fired up cooking brats, and the smell makes you seriously hungry. And everywhere you look, there’s a sea of green and gold – jerseys, hats, those iconic cheesehead hats. It’s more than just a pre-game party; it’s like a community get-together where everyone’s there for the love of the game and their team.

Heinz Field

When you’re in Pittsburgh on a Steelers game day at Heinz Field, you’re in for a lively celebration of the team’s history. With live music and a Hall of Fame display, an interactive and festive atmosphere honors the Steelers’ impressive legacy. It’s a must-visit spot for any Steelers fan looking to soak in the team’s history and enjoy the game-day excitement.

NASCAR Tailgates

Talladega Superspeedway

When race weekend rolls around, Talladega Superspeedway turns into something else. Stretching 2.66 miles, the infield is big enough to host a tiny city. Fans usually start arriving a few days before the actual race, hauling in RVs, and setting up in the campgrounds and parking lots. It’s all about finding the best spot to settle in and soak up the racing atmosphere. Back in the day, the infield was known for being one of the wildest places in NASCAR. But nowadays, it’s mellowed out a bit and more family-friendly.

Bristol Motor Speedway

Those heading to a race at Bristol Motor Speedway are in for more than a sports event, with the tailgating scene being a massive part of the fun. Bristol has tons of campground space so that you can make a weekend out of it. Park your RV, roll out the coolers and grills, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. Everywhere you look, you’ll find NASCAR fans tailgating and enjoying themselves. It’s super easy to join in and make new friends while at it.

Concert Venue Tailgates

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

If you’re planning to catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, get ready for an experience that begins well before the main act. The venue, nestled in the Colorado mountains just a stone’s throw away from Denver, is a majestic natural amphitheater surrounded by red rock formations, offering a panoramic view that’s simply breathtaking. The stunning views, exceptional acoustics, and friendly atmosphere make for an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where music, nature, and community converge, creating memories that linger long after the final encore.

Hollywood Bowl

While it might seem contradictory to include the Hollywood Bowl, given its well-known no-tailgating policy, the amphitheater more than makes up for it with its elegant pre-concert picnics, thanks to its stunning hillside setting in Hollywood; it’s a prime place for outdoor dining experience before the concert begins. And if you’re planning to go, knowing the Bowl’s picnic and alcohol policy is key to making the most out of your visit. While BYOB is totally fine, kegs and hard liquor are no-nos, and throwing a big bash isn’t on the cards either.

Opera Tailgates

Santa Fe Opera

Opera enthusiasts flock to Santa Fe every summer for its breathtaking scenery and exceptional performances, with visitors coming hours before the event starts to enjoy the unique tailgating experience at the Santa Fe Opera. Tailgating here is an elegant affair against the picturesque Sangre de Cristo Mountains —a far cry from your typical pre-show gathering. Rather than hot dogs and beer here, you’ll find gourmet picnics with fine wines and cheeses. Attendees dressed in “Santa Fe Formal” attire, suitable for the unpredictable July weather, enjoy a unique experience that blends the grandeur of opera with the beauty of the outdoors.

This article was produced and syndicated by MediaFeed.

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