Tailgating Time in Louisiana
Learn how to tailgate like an expert with this roundup.
Tailgating in Louisiana this fall? Learn about football culture in the South, Louisiana’s SEC legacy and how to set up the perfect tailgate.
Explore our Top Tailgating Resources:
Few events are as fun as a Southern tailgate — especially in Louisiana. These all-day affairs blend the best of our state’s communal culture: From enjoying good food and fun to celebrating friendly rivalries, we know how to bring the spirit.
Football Basics
Louisiana History: Joe Cahn’s Legacy
Joe Cahn, the former self-proclaimed Commissioner of Tailgating (or “Da’ Commish), spent his weekends partaking in pregame scenes at professional and college football games — attending more than 600 games in his lifetime. He had been to every stadium in the National Football League, including our very own Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge and Cajun Field in Lafayette.
“Tailgating is what I refer to as the new community social or the last great American neighborhood. It is where people get together,” said Cahn. “In Louisiana, if you want to be my friend, feed me! Give me some of that crawfish over there. Give me a Ruston peach. Give me something that tastes good.”
Where to Tailgate in Louisiana
As Joe Cahn once said, “When you walk around Louisiana, you don’t have to have an invitation to go to the party.” From SEC to college games, here’s where we love to tailgate — and what conference and division you can expect.
- The Saints in New Orleans: National Football League (NFL)
- Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge: Southeastern Conference (SEC)
- Tulane University in New Orleans: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
- Grambling State University: Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
- University of Louisiana at Monroe: Sun Belt Conference
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette: Sun Belt Conference
- Louisiana Tech University in Ruston: Conference USA
- Northwestern State University in Natchitoches: Southland Conference
- Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond: Southland Conference
- Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge: Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
Top 5 Tailgating Tips
- Dress the part: Game days in Louisiana call for a proper outfit. Dress like a local and wear your team’s colors, making note of any specific game day requests. Since most teams have two signature colors (and since some teams have seasonal whiteout and blackout games), be sure to doublecheck the institution’s football calendar for reference. Shop locally throughout the state to find game day outfits!
- Plan a menu: In the words of Joe Cahn, “The simpler you keep it, the better your experience is going to be.” If you’re grilling, opt for easy-to-hold finger foods like burgers or hot dogs. Keep chilled foods to a minimum on hot days; Bring a well-insulated cooler; Pack extra trash bags.
- Remember the essentials: Since you’ll be outside for most of the day, pack essentials like hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. You’ll also want to bring chairs, portable fans and refillable water bottles, too.
- Choose nearby accommodations: On long, fun days, it’s easiest to stay near your stadium of choice. Browse our list of places to stay in Louisiana for help.
- Respect the Rules: Each facility has different safety rules in place. Be mindful of rules around grilling, alcoholic beverages and clear bag policies.
Learn more about tailgating in Louisiana.
