Tailgating Party Ideas

Hey sports fans! When cooler weather blows in, tailgating blows up! But tailgating big doesn't have to cost a lot. Big Lots is your end zone for affordable tailgating ideas, recipes, food, and fun that will make game day a great day and score huge points with family and friends. Check it out.

Tailgating Recipes and Food Fun

Let's be honest, tailgating is as much about the food and drink as it is about the game. It's a great chance to show off your inner foodie, or simply indulge in more traditional feel-good favorites. Whatever your style, we've got a bunch of recipes your guests will rave about.

To round out your spread, you'll always find great deals on 2-liters, chips, and water every week at Big Lots. Fun sodas, candy and other snacks, too! Of course, once you've made your spread, you have to have something to put it on. Hit up Big Lots for folding tables, paper plates, cups, napkins-maybe a bigger crockpot!

Pack a Cooler

How to pack a cooler properly is one of the great mysteries of life. But we've got your back. Not only do we have a great selection of coolers of many sizes, we have everything to pack in it, too!

Here are the basics:

• Cool all items first

• Put cans & drinks at the bottom

• Pack food in lidded storage containers, placing any bagged food on top

• Pour water into the bottom to keep the drinks extra cold

Organization Hack: Use a hanging shoe organizer to neatly store all the stuff that usually clutters up precious counter and table space! SCORE!

Pre-Planning Lets you Plan to Relax

A little pre-game planning and pre-packing really pay off. The more you do now, the more you can relax on game day and spend quality time with family and friends (or, maybe even watch the game).

Tailgating Pro Tips:

• A set of small storage drawers can be loaded with plasticware, condiments, or even toppings and sides. Slide 'em closed to keep the bugs at bay!

• Small bins and totes can keep things tidy, while bigger totes can be used for additional beverages that show up with your guests.

• Foldable quad chairs are an easy way to ensure there's always plenty of seating.

• If you're tailgating outside, a bin or basket of extra blankets will keep the chillier folks comfy-cozy.

• Don't forget the yard games for kids and adults alike!

So there you have it. Your game day gameplan for a terrific tailgate. Print this tailgating checklist so you can check the boxes, chill out, and cheer for your team.