Tailgating in football is a social gathering that takes place in the parking lot of a stadium, arena, or venue before a game, where fans come together to eat, drink, and socialize before the game starts. It is a beloved tradition in North America that has become a national holiday celebrated by 80% of the US. Tailgating is most often associated with football, both college and professional, but it is also practiced during baseball season and ahead of NASCAR races. Tailgating parties often involve consuming alcoholic beverages while barbecuing and grilling food. People attending such a party are said to be "tailgating". Lawn games such as KanJam, cornhole, ladder golf, Polish horseshoes, Louisville Chugger, Jarts, washer pitching, and Sholf are very popular during tailgates and tailgate parties. Tailgating parties have spread to the pre-game festivities at sporting events besides American football, such as basketball, hockey, baseball, and soccer.

Tailgating is a public or private event, and it can be done on your own, with some friends, or with strangers. Tailgating is all about sitting around and enjoying the company of fellow fans, having fun, and taking in a fall or winter day with lots of alcohol and even more stomach-stretching grub. It is a pre-game party that gets everyone hyped for the main event. Tailgating parties typically consist of grilling out, eating, and drinking. Fans and friends get the party started early in preparation for an exciting sports or music event. Tailgating is also known as pre-gaming, a warm-up for the main event.

In summary, tailgating in football is a social gathering that takes place in the parking lot of a stadium, arena, or venue before a game, where fans come together to eat, drink, and socialize before the game starts. It is a beloved tradition in North America that has become a national holiday celebrated by 80% of the US.