The beginning of the football season also means a return to tailgating. While some of us may have continued the tradition throughout the summer concert season, football tailgating is a whole other game.

When you think of tailgating, the first thing you think of is food. That’s the best part, isn’t it (along with a few beverages)? Grilling is a hallmark when it comes to gearing up in the parking lot and hanging with your friends before the game. That’s why you have to start prepping the night before. Instead of getting stuck preparing food while everyone else is partying, prep as much as you can on the eve of the game. Meats should already be marinated and hamburger patties shaped out before you even roll your mobile party onto the scene. That way, all you have to do is throw them on the grill and enjoy.

Once you have your food situation straightened out, make sure you have yourself covered in case of an emergency (because priorities, right?). Specifically speaking, bring either a jump pack or cables with you in case you drain your car battery. This obviously doesn’t apply to those with monster rigs backed by generators, but we’re going out on a limb here and guessing that the majority of readers don’t roll like that. It happens all the time; you’re sitting there, munching away and drinking to your heart’s content with AC/DC blasting through your car radio, and later, when you go to start the car to head home, you hear that dreaded “click” when you turn the key. Don’t become that guy going around asking for a “jump.” As an added reminder, don’t forget to charge your jump pack before going to the game.

If you really want to be the cool kid on the tailgating block, try jazzing up your spot with Bliss Lights. Those speckled neon lights you saw adorning all the houses during the holiday season last year are back, and they’re not just for the holidays. Emanating from an easy-to-use remote controlled projector, the multi-faceted colors and designs of Bliss Lights can transform a humdrum parking lot into a colorful party. Different colors are available, so look for the one that matches your team colors. Random? Maybe. But this is tailgating, and you can’t pull any punches.

Finally, when you plan out your tailgating party, make sure to check the rules and regulations for the venue, as they can oftentimes vary. It should also go without saying that you need to leave early if you really want to get the most tailgating in. Sometimes tailgating can be the best part of the day, especially if your team doesn’t come away with the win, so arrive early and have fun.

Oh, and one final thing: Don’t forget to pack the cornhole game set!

Jason SAVIO