Wanna tailgate? Make it fun and create a theme!

Here’s one of my faves: Kansas City Style Tailgating.

What does that mean? All food is – what else? – KC style!

Start with some Kansas City strip steaks (seasoned with a Kansas City rub).

Or, perhaps some KC cheesesteaks. What makes these different than Philly cheesesteaks, you ask? Well, they’re from Kansas City, of course!

Add some pit beans – Kansas City style – and you’ve got a rootin’ tootin’ KC-themed tailgate party.

Have a blast playing off this theme and create your own to play with.

It’s tailgate season, friends, let’s do it up right!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

‘Tis the season to have a cookout in the parking lot! Baseball season, that is!

And to have a successful tailgating experience, you’ve gotta have a plan. So here’s mine…

THINK AHEAD

How many people will be joining you? After you figure that number, add 10. Making friends with other tailgaters is the norm, not the exception. So bring enough plates, napkins, utensils, condiments, drinks, food and fun for that many. Hey, leftovers are always welcome. Oh, and bring a cooler just for leftovers.

THINK COMPACT

Bring a portable grill (think camping style) for your chef. Plus grill supplies. Nothing that needs plugging in, unless you have a generator or other power source.

MAKE A MENU

Go with tried and true favorites – burgers, hot dogs, buns, chips, drinks and condiments. Anything unusual at a tailgate party and you might not have takers. Then what will they eat? And don’t forget dessert!

GET COMFORTABLE

Bring lots of folding chairs and at least one table. You’ve got to have a place to set all this stuff! Make it inviting for folks to hang around and talk about your favorite team. A tent to shade your group from the sun is also a great idea. Your relish and mayonnaise will thank you, too.

HAVE FUN!

Make lasting memories with your friends and family – all while eating your favorite foods! It’s a WIN/WIN!

Photos courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.