Tailgating has been an integral part of college football since the first intercollegiate football game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869.

While the game itself may be the main event, pre-game festivities are also important priorities with tailgating topping the list.

Many students enjoy congregating on Spirit Hill outside Braly Stadium before games for fellowship, food and their favorite tailgating games.

“Tailgating is really fun because it brings all types of people together to eat, drink and have a good time talking about sports,” said junior Zach Darracott.

Football is part of southern culture and, to many, tailgating is as much a part of college football as the game itself.

“With all the controversy and strong opinions in the South, football is always the one thing that everyone can rally around,” said senior Christian Bayens. “Everyone has a good time tailgating because they’re all there for the same reason.”

The smell of burgers on the grill and a familiar sight of students tossing the pigskin around are some of the activities seen while walking across Royal Avenue.

“The food is definitely one of my favorite parts about tailgating,” said junior Nathan Richardson. “I also like to hang out with my friends as well.”

Good food and good times seem to be the theme for gameday for Lions fans.

“At our biggest tailgates, which are the parents’ tailgate and homecoming, we provide plenty of barbecue, hamburgers and hotdogs,” Richardson said. “We also have TVs and tailgate games like cornhole.”

Tailgating for many goes beyond the food and can serve as an opportunity for friendships to grow and to meet new people.

“I would encourage everybody to get out and tailgate before the game because there’s nothing like enjoying a Saturday evening with your friends,” Richardson said.

Tailgating is a great way for students to get together and show their school spirit, Bayens said.

Darracott said everyone should be a part of tailgating even if they not football fans. 

“The whole game day experience is just really fun,” Darracott said. “I’ve never met anyone who hated a good tailgate.”