National Tailgating Day

Fire up the grill and celebrate America's favorite pre-game tradition on National Tailgating Day! Tailgating is more than just eating in a parking lot - it's about community, friendship, and the shared excitement of game day. From elaborate setups to simple coolers, embrace this uniquely American social tradition.

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About National Tailgating Day

History & origins

National Tailgating Day was created in 2016 by Luke Lorick, president of Tailgating Challenge, to celebrate the pre-game tradition of gathering around food, drinks, and team spirit. It is an informal American observance rather than a formal government holiday, and it falls on the first Saturday in September. The day reflects the broader U.S. culture of football-season tailgating, which grew alongside car culture and stadium parking traditions.

Why it matters

National Tailgating Day highlights how tailgating brings people together before games, concerts, and other events. It also supports a real economic ecosystem around grilling, beverages, portable gear, team merchandise, and stadium-adjacent spending. For many fans, it’s a social ritual that turns game day into a shared community experience, not just a ticketed event.

How to celebrate

Set up your tailgating gear in your driveway or local parking lot. Grill burgers, hot dogs, and other tailgating favorites. Play cornhole, ladder golf, or other tailgating games. Decorate your setup with team colors and banners. Share your tailgating setup and recipes on social media.

Facts

Tailgating became popular in the 1960s with the rise of television and car culture
The largest tailgating party can have over 100,000 people
Tailgating generates over $1 billion in economic activity annually
Some tailgaters arrive 12+ hours before game time
Tailgating is considered a uniquely American social tradition

Upcoming dates

Monday, September 7, 2026
Tuesday, September 7, 2027
Thursday, September 7, 2028
Friday, September 7, 2029
Saturday, September 7, 2030

Frequently asked questions

When is National Tailgating Day in 2026?

National Tailgating Day in 2026 is on Monday, September 7, 2026.

What is National Tailgating Day?

National Tailgating Day is a celebration of pre-game tailgating, especially around American football. It honors the food, friendship, and parking-lot party atmosphere that define the tradition.

Who started National Tailgating Day?

Luke Lorick, president of Tailgating Challenge, founded National Tailgating Day in 2016. He created it to spotlight tailgating as a major part of game-day culture.

How do you celebrate National Tailgating Day?

You celebrate it by grilling, bringing snacks and drinks, and gathering with friends in a driveway, backyard, or stadium lot where permitted. Games like cornhole and themed decorations make the setup feel festive.

Is National Tailgating Day an official holiday?

No, National Tailgating Day is an informal observance, not an official public holiday. It is a fan-driven celebration of a popular American sports tradition.

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