The Top 6 Items You Need for Homegating

Tailgating traditionally refers to grilling food, enjoying drinks and socializing in the parking lots of stadiums before or after live sporting events. Homegating brings the tailgating experience to the comfort of your own home. Instead of going to the stadium, you can invite people to your house to watch the big game and recreate the festive atmosphere of a traditional tailgate party.

Transforming your home into the ultimate game day destination requires more than just the game and a comfy couch. Whether you’re a die-hard fanatic or just love the camaraderie of cheering on your favorite team with friends, our curated guide of indoor tailgating essentials will bring your homegate party to the next level.

1. Grills.

The most obvious DIY tailgating item and perhaps the most essential is the grill. Hungry partygoers need to fuel up on food during your at-home tailgating party to make it through the game and cheer on the team.

From classic burgers and hot dogs to marinated kebabs and sizzling steaks, live action cooking can become the centerpiece of entertainment. Here's a quick overview of some common types of grill that make tailgating at home that much more fun:

Gas grills. Offering precise temperature control, the convenience of gas grills is ideal if you prefer a cleaner, efficient cooking experience.
Charcoal grills. Although they require time for the charcoal to heat up, many people prefer the distinct smoky flavor a charcoal grill provides.
Pellet grills. For a unique wood-fired flavor, pellet grills allow for both grilling and smoking.

Less traditional grilling options, like kamado grills or even outdoor pizza ovens, can also add some originality to your at-home tailgating party. For a more in-depth rundown, consider reading up on the different types of grills.

2. Bluetooth speakers.

Besides the grill, is there anything more synonymous with tailgate party ideas than music and speakers? Whether you’re hosting an indoor gathering or extending the festivities to your backyard, Bluetooth and wireless speakers provide unparalleled flexibility and freedom. You can easily sync up your smartphone or other device with your speaker, completely eliminating the need for extra wires or a clunky receiver.

Smart home tech enthusiasts should consider a smart speaker when gathering tailgate supplies. If you are wondering what a smart speaker is and what it does, it is a voice-activated device with built-in virtual assistant capabilities that can answer questions, control smart home devices, perform various tasks and of course, play music. These extra capabilities could prove to be indispensable, making them the best speakers for a party if you need to look up stats, player info, game schedules or anything else related to the event.

3. Accent lighting.

Accent lighting is the secret ingredient that can transform your homegating party from ordinary to extraordinary. Beyond mere illumination, accent tailgating lights set the stage for a festive and celebratory atmosphere, infusing your space with warmth and style. Party lights not only add to the visual appeal but also contribute to a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making your home the go-to destination for game day festivities. As the natural light fades, accent lighting takes center stage, ensuring that the party doesn't lose its vibrancy.

4. Ice makers.

With the convenience of an ice maker, you can bid farewell to the hassle of constantly refilling ice trays or running to the store for bags of ice. This time-saving appliance guarantees a steady supply of ice, allowing you to focus on the game and enjoy the company of your guests. Whether you’re serving up classic sodas, crafting signature cocktails or keeping beers frosty, an abundance of ice is the key to keeping every homegating partygoer’s beverages perfectly chilled.

5. TVs.

This should go without saying, but a TV is the cornerstone of any memorable homegating party. And, since you aren’t having your party in a parking lot, the best TV for tailgating isn’t necessarily the best TV for a homegate party. This, in turn, gives you more options to choose from. Here is a brief rundown of some common types of TVs that’ll help bring any big game to life:

4K Ultra HD TVs. 4K TVs provide four times the detail of Full HD, making them the new visual standard of entertainment with sharper and more detailed images, especially on larger screens.
OLED TVs. Each pixel in an OLED TV’s screen emits its own light, allowing for excellent contrast ratios and wide viewing angles.
QLED TVs. Quantum dot technology is utilized for enhanced color and brightness with a QLED TV, providing excellent color accuracy and improved energy efficiency.
Smart TVs. Smart TVs have built-in internet connectivity, giving you access to online content, streaming services and apps directly on the TV.

Smart TVs might be the best bet if you’re looking to stream the big game, but if you are planning on watching it on regular broadcast television, make sure you have an adequate TV antenna.

6. Wi-Fi and networking options.

Having reliable Wi-Fi is more than just a convenience, it’s a necessity that amplifies the party. From real-time score updates and interactive game apps to streaming additional content, a stable Wi-Fi connection ensures that you stay connected to the broader world of sports when online tailgating. Wi-Fi and networking also enables the seamless integration of smart devices like wireless speakers, allowing you to curate the perfect playlist without missing a beat.

Score big when enjoying your home tailgate items.

Transforming your home into the ultimate homegating destination involves the perfect blend of essential elements. From the enticing aroma of tasty delights on the grill to the immersive entertainment created by wireless speakers and a TV, each component plays a crucial role in curating a memorable experience for you and your guests. As you gear up for your next homegating extravaganza, consider these home tailgating ideas and items not just as tools, but as the building blocks of shared moments and the creation of lasting memories.