Did you know tailgating has been around for over a hundred years? Many think of tailgating solely as a football pastime since its birth at a college game, although it is still disputed which college game was responsible for its creation. Now tailgating is a nationwide activity and it's not just for football anymore.
These days, tailgating parties are taking place at the weekly NASCAR events, at Major League Baseball games, outside concert halls, in high school parking lots before sporting events, and even in people’s driveways and back yards. They’ve become so popular, in fact, they’ve evolved into an American pastime that is right up there with baseball and apple pie.
Some say tailgating parties have become so popular because they represent the melting pot America has become. People who may be complete strangers welcome anyone into their tailgating space and share food as they are united by a common interest, even if they’re cheering for opposing teams. Others think tailgating has become a huge phenomenon because in a faster-paced world, there is a greater need to unwind, let loose, and have fun. Either way, tailgating extends the excitement of a sporting event days before and even afterwards. It’s like a neighborhood block party at every sporting event or large outdoor gathering and if you plan to give it a try, you need to be prepared.
Tailgating is getting more involved all the time with the development of new products to bring along. That’s why it’s best to keep things simple. After all, your goal is to enjoy yourself, not stress out over preparation. In addition to the food and drinks, you’ll also need a grill, cooking utensils, cooler, plates, napkins, etc. And that’s not to mention the other gear you’ll want to bring with you, like sunscreen, folding chairs, a hat, portable mister or fan, stadium seat cushions, camera, radio, etc.
“With so many things to pack up in the car, it’s easy to forget something important, but now there’s a simple solution for those who enjoy tailgating,” says Gustavo Cosaro, owner of Picnic Time, a California company that manufactures and distributes quality picnic baskets, outdoor leisure, and unique gift items.
New this summer is what Cosaro calls “the ultimate party cooler and the perfect gift for any tailgater “-- the Buccaneer. Inside a sturdy tote the size of a small duffel bag (with easy-to-carry handles and a padded shoulder strap) is everything you need to take your party on the road: a BBQ grill with lid, a large spatula with a serrated edge, a pair of tongs, a BBQ fork, and a removable, insulated cooler.
“All you have to do is fill the cooler with food and drinks, throw in some plates, utensils and condiments, and let the party begin,” says Cosaro.
Not sure what to pack? Here are some ideas from the folks at Picnic Time:
* Hot Dogs and Hamburgers/Veggie Burgers and Buns
* Ketchup, Mustard, Relish
* Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles, Onions
* Sliced Cheese
* Red Potato Salad
* Coleslaw
* Chili
* Fresh Fruit Salad
* Chips and Dip
* Your Favorite Beverages
The Buccaneer just hit the market but is already getting rave reviews. It’s sure to be a hot seller this season since this unique item is the only all-in-one tailgater on the market. It was named winner of the 2006 Chicago Choice Awards at the Chicago Gift & Home Market show in January.
And that’s not all Picnic Time has for tailgating. Check out their portable, folding picnic table for four or their cushy stadium seat cushions. They also carry great picnic totes, like the Sherwood, complete with plates, glasses, napkins, flatware, and more.
The Buccaneer cooler/grill combo retails for between $90 and $110. You can check out Picnic Time’s online catalog at www.picnictime.com. Click on the link that says “find an online retailer” to find out where you can get your own Buccaneer. - ARA
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