Top tailgating tips from American Legend Homes

Are you ready for some football? Whether you’re ready or not, fall officially kicks off football season. While we all may not enjoy watching the game on television, it’s safe to say we like getting together with friends and family to enjoy tasty food and drinks. So huddle up! American Legend Homes has some tips for your next tailgate.

If the game plan is to head to the stadium, think portable and packable. You’ll want your menu to consist of prepared foods and drinks that are easy to pack and transport. Luckily, your American Legend kitchen is equipped with plenty of countertop space for you to prep ahead of time. Consider marinating meat, shaping and seasoning burger patties and mixing up your favorite beverage the night before to save time. If you don’t have a portable grill or don’t want to use one consider these no-grill recipes. Don’t forget essentials like utensils, napkins, trash bags, water and sunscreen. You’ll also want to pack a Bluetooth speaker to listen to the pregame show, a few lawn chairs and your lucky game-day jersey. And did you know there is a proper way to pack a cooler? Here are a few cooler-packing tips in case you need a little help. 

Skip the traffic and crowds by tailgating at home. You’ve been working hard on your landscaping all summer long now it’s time to show it off. Your outdoor living and kitchen area is perfect for a “backyard” tailgate! Spruce up the yard with some easy decorations. Set out blankets and lawn chairs for seating, hang up some string lights and decorate with your favorite team’s colors. Plan to keep kids and adults entertained with outdoor games like cornhole and giant Jenga or have a football or two on hand to toss around. Fire up the grill to keep everyone well fed. Brats are always a crowd pleaser. Grilled pizza and sliders are also favorites. For large groups we recommend grilling up BBQ ribs or smoked brisket. You’ll also want to provide some sides and snacks like fruit, popcorn, cookies, smoked queso, mac and cheese or potato salad. Don’t forget to throw a few of your favorite drinks in a cooler! 

Weather can be unpredictable as can football! So always have a back-up plan. If it happens to rain on the day of your tailgate there is no need to scramble just head indoors! The open floor plan in your home is perfect for entertaining. Keep it casual by throwing pillows and blankets on the floor for extra seating, setting up food in the kitchen buffet style and watching the game in the living on your TV. For those who are really into the game consider showing the game in your media room so the serious fans won’t be distracted. 

If you’re not in the mood to entertain at your home, don’t worry. American Legend Homes has you covered. Pack some snacks, lawn chairs and blankets and head to one of the many parks or greenspaces in your neighborhood. Castle Hills has more than 25 (!) parks; Light Farms has the 90-acre Constellation Park; and Union Park has the 30-acre Central Park and Fitness Park, which is perfect for some football-throwing. You can go old school and keep it simple by listening to the game on the radio or you can set up an outdoor screen and watch the game in the park. Rain or shine, indoor or outdoor, American Legend Homes is here to help score big this football season!