There's tailgating and then there's tailgating—creating a party atmosphere so steeped in fun that even rival fans will covet your parking spot. The game plan for achieving the latter is simple: great food + killer drinks + rousing games and tunes. Here are a few ways to make it happen (both on the cheap and as a splurge).

The Food

As the stomach is the key to every sports fan's heart, food should be the centerpiece of your tailgating operation. Start by choosing high-quality proteins—such as this 8-pack of filet mignon burgers—and firing them up on your grill of choice. Steal: Weber Smoky Joe Gold Portable Charcoal Grill Splurge: Weber Q 2400 Portable Electric Grill Display your feast on sports-themed plates and napkins, and make sure your friends have a comfortable place to sit.

The Drinks

A cooler full of ice and beer may have cut it in college—and okay, it still does now—but consider kicking it up a notch with frozen drinks or themed cocktails. Grab a blender, along with barware and some fancy glasses, and get creative with some sports-themed libations—like Miami Dolphins Tears (pretty much anything mixed with blue curacao). Steal: Waring TG15 Tailgating Blender Splurge: The "Extreme" Daiquiri Whacker

The Games & Music

There's nothing like a bit of friendly competition to get the good times flowing. Pick up a package of red Solo cups and your favorite brew to start a game of flippy cup, or consider classic pastimes like cornhole or ladderBall. You can also enliven the mood by blasting your favorite tunes through a set of speakers. Here are a few options: Steal: Axess Portable Bluetooth Indoor/Outdoor Speaker Splurge: Ion Audio Tailgate Portable Bluetooth Speaker System Have fun, and remember to check your stadium's tailgating rules before heading out to the game! For more deals on pre-game shenanigans, check out our Tailgating occasions page.