Team chip and dip The Emerald Turtle in Gulf Breeze

The big games are underway, and it is time to plan not just for the game but also for the really big event, the pre-game tailgate.

If you are walking straight from the parking lot into the stadium, you are missing out on one of the most popular aspects of attending a game.

Tailgating is the term for dining al fresco before a sporting event. The history of the term is unclear, and can refer to people sitting on the lowered tailgate of a truck while watching a game. It is also claimed that people walking to the stadiums got hungry and thirsty and began bringing a picnic basket along to nourish themselves before a game.

Whatever its origin, tailgating caught on and is a pregame staple at most sporting events. Some tailgate parties are basic, with a bucket of chicken and a six pack of beer, while others are elegant, featuring linen tablecloths, fresh cut flowers and candelabras.

We asked the staff here at Splash Magazine f they had any tailgating tips, and here are a few:

"I remember at one tailgate party, we had grilled oysters. The oysters were put on the grill in their shells, and when the shells opened, the oysters were ready," said Denise Lukas.

Insulated team bag and fillers Blue Sky Gifts in Gulf Breeze.

"I once tailgated at the Grove at the University of Mississippi. The Grove is a field with a bunch of old oak trees. They are monstrous. It's always a good to tailgate in a shady area," said Joe Culpepper.

"When I went to a Florida game at LSU, the tailgaters were set up around the stadium with their Cajun cookers full of gumbo and jambalaya. It smelled wonderful," recalls Lisa Newell.

Here is a list of items to have on hand for a successful tailgate experience, also provided by staffers at Splash Magazine:

1. Plenty of shade - If you can't bring a pecan tree with you, bring a canopy or tent. Also useful in case of rain.

2. Access to a bathroom - motor homes are ideal. Otherwise, snag a place close to the porta toity (but not too close.)

3. Lawn chairs - preferably with your team logo

Team chip and dip, pitcher, insulated cup, wine glasses, mugs, and more. The Emerald Turtle in Gulf Breeze

4. A table for serving food - the bigger the better to handle chips, dips, serving bowls. Tablecloth is optional.

5. Ice/ice chests - large ones can also be used for seating.

6. A portable grill - if you have a small group, a hibachi may be sufficient. Otherwise, bring the full size grill or gas cooker.

7. Plates. cups and napkins - paper or china plates are acceptable, depending on your tastes.

8. A travel TV with portable satellite dish - don't miss the pregame show.

9. Finger food - anything that can be eaten while holding a drink. Chips, hot dogs, celery sticks or even pizza.

11. Team colors/decorations - to get into the spirit and help identify fellow fans. Also useful for identifying the opposing team's fans.

12. Garbage and recycling bags - don't leave a trace behind. Clean up!

Pork tenderloin kabobs

Marinade:
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Cube pork tenderloin into 1" chunks and marinate for 2-3 hours, covered in the refrigerator.

 

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20- 30 minutes or use metal. Thread marinated pork cubes onto skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, cherry tomatoes and onion, if desired.

Place on grill for 6 to 8 minutes per side. A crowd pleaser!

Bourbon Slush

1 (6 oz) can frozen orange juice concentrate
1 (12 oz) can frozen lemonade concentrate
1 (46 oz) can pineapple juice
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 cups brewed tea
2 cups bourbon whiskey
1 (2 liter) bottle lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage

In a large bowl, mix the orange juice concentrate, lemonade concentrate, pineapple juice, sugar, tea and bourbon. Transfer to shallow bowls or dishes, and freeze overnight.

 

Remove the frozen mixture from the freezer and let stand for about 10 minutes. Chop with a wire whisk or potato masher to make a slushy consistency. Scoop into glasses and top off with lemon-lime soda.