With football season in full swing, there’s no better time to gather friends and commence a tailgate to get ready for the big game.
In Norman, where the art of tailgating has grown in recent years, the gift store Occasions has you covered with OU Sooner napkins, Styrofoam cups, yard decor and more, said owner Jennifer Austin.
Practically speaking, among the most popular items her store has for tailgaters are Fancy Panz — containers that frame the foil pans used to transport food. They are sturdy, cute and have see-through lids so people can see what’s on their tailgate buffet. And when you’re through with the meal, cleanup is easy — just remove the foil pans and throw them away, keeping the Fancy Panz for next week’s game.
“You’ve got your dish ready to tailgate again,” Austin said. Keeping things disposable is key so that cleanup is easy when it’s time to head into the game.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has a checklist of items and other ideas for tailgating in a blog post. Start with a canopy, folding tables and camping chairs, then add coolers to keep beverages cool, Dick’s noted. Don’t forget details like a bottle opener and corkscrew, koozies, food covers to protect it from bugs, utensils, plates and cups. Consider throwing in bungee cords, duct tape or cords to secure things to the ground in bad weather. And throw in garbage bags and paper towels for cleanup.
When you have the basics down, add in outdoor games like cornhole and a wireless speaker for some additional flair.
In addition to Occasions and Dick’s Sporting Goods, check out local stores for game day tailgating items like Starr Home in Edmond, No Regrets and Paper ‘N More in Oklahoma City, Christmas Expressions in Norman and others. Of course, with the Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State Bedlam game looming, head to Bedlam Zone in Edmond and the Big Red Shop in Oklahoma City to get items for both teams.
