A tailgate party has evolved from an actual picnic on the tailgate of a truck into theme for many a party. Tailgates dont happen just before football games anymore. And they certainly arent only for truck drivers. Now they include hatchbacks and trunks, and most often mini-vans. Be creative in using your vehicle!

A tailgate party is still a great way to get ready for any sporting event. Whether its your favorite college or pro team, food and drink before hand is a tradition. Food that is easy to store in a cooler or grill is top pick. Hot dogs, brats and hamburgers are easy to make, as well as shish kabobs and sandwiches. Chips, cookies and brownies are great finger foods to top off any meal. If you have lawn chairs or seating, salads and foods requiring plates and forks are then good for serving too.

A Tailgate party can have plates, cups and napkins to match your sporting event. If its a Big Ten football game, use football products. You are celebrating a baseball game, buy baseball themed products.

Tailgates dont have to be just for sporting events either. A tailgate while waiting for a parade to begin is a fun idea. Depending on the time of the parade determines your food of choice. An early morning holiday parade would be great with donuts and coffee. An evening homecoming parade is great for sandwiches and a picnic. Paper products can match the event youre watching - Santa for a holiday parade or the color of the school you are watching at homecoming. A tailgate can happen while you are waiting for the doors to open at a concert.

Games at tailgate parties can be tough. Tailgates are usually for adults, so bring a football or Frisbee to toss around. Beer drinking games can also be used with caution!