14 Till 14: Ten Alabama Crimson Tide Tailgating Musts
By Tyler Dalton
14 Till 2014 is a series of articles counting the days until Alabama kickoff, when we can finally watch real football instead of scrambling for every little 30-second practice video and analyzing Nick Saban’s every word, despite knowing he’s not going to give us that much information.
In honor of school starting today, I’m going to talk about the Quad. If you’ve never been on campus, it’s a gorgeous place to walk around and relax between classes. It’s also beautiful on an Alabama game day. All the tents and students dressed up is a sight to see as well. Whether you’re tailgating for your first time this year or a seasoned veteran, it doesn’t hurt to have a refresher. So here’s ten musts on an Alabama Saturday.
Actually Tailgating on the Quad
Simple start right? In my four years here I’ve had a tent set up just about every where. Parking lots, right off The Strip, in the middle of the Quad, apartment complex, and pretty much just all of campus. The best experience by far is being able to camp out all day in the middle of all the action. You get the nice scenery, and just being in the middle of everything is an experience in itself.
Tent City
If you’re going to tailgate then you’re going to need a tent. Or find a friend with a tent. Or just make friends. I recommend either of the first two choices. If getting to the Quad early and setting up your own tents, tables, platters, and everything in between sounds like too much work, then you better make sure you have another place to go.
Cornhole
Yes you read that right. If you’re not familiar with the game, it’s a bean bag toss game involving a couple boards and is usually played at tailgates, the beach or even your own back lawn. That may not sound super exciting, but when trash talk and a few beers are involved, it can get intense. I was given a custom Alabama set as a gift this summer, so if you’re a lover of the game or I’ve piqued your interest, come find me on the Quad and we’ll throw a few bags.
Bringing the Right Food
You’re out in the hot sun all day and all you’ve had is, well, probably beer (don’t drink too much or I will find you and take embarrassing pics). You gotta have food. I’m talking burgers, hot dogs, chips, salsa, dips, hawaiian rolls, and pretty much whatever else you can get your hands on. Unfortunately this will probably require you to drag a grill with you to the tent. If that’s not your style, then maybe just buy some party platters from numerous restaurants or grocery stores nearby.
Drinking a Yellowhammer
Okay so I’m not advocating drinking, but trying a Yellowhammer at Gallette’s is quickly becoming a new game day tradition for students and other fans alike. It has a fruity taste, which comes in handy on a hot day and they’re slightly watered down, so it won’t be a killer for you later in the day. Unless you buy the half gallon. Don’t drink the entire half gallon by yourself. No, we’re not going to go into that story.
Honor Thy Neighbor
Tailgating is a marathon affair. Hours will be invested, energy will be spent and embarrassing events will happen. Go ahead and start the day off with a friendly “Roll Tide” to the guys and gals around you. Who knows; they could be the people setting up a big screen TV who becomes a new buddy to talk football with. Some of the best times can involve talking to other fans about your favorite moments or your own team breakdown with random strangers.
Million Dollar Band
If you have the opportunity, checking out The Million Dollar band on the Quad is a fun expereince. They’ll perform in front of fans an hour and a half before kick off on the North side. If bands aren’t really your thing, you can also make your way to “The Walk of Champions” to cheer on the coaches and players as they enter the stadium.
Breakfast is the Most Important Meal
Hungry before the tailgate? You’re in luck, not only is Tuscaloosa home to football champions, but good eats as well. Rama Jama’s is the first spot, conveniently located next to the stadium as well. They have a superb breakfast that won’t kill the wallet either. If you’re looking for another nice southern spot to try, check out The Waysider. Actually met Barrett Jones last time I was there, so who knows who you’ll see.
Let’s Talk Post Game
Game is over. Bama wins! The tailgate is cleaned up and you’re ready to celebrate. Where do you go? For students, they know the bars like the back of their hands. But for the guys just looking for a nice meal? We’ve covered breakfast, now let’s cover a post game celebration over some good food. Chuck’s is really nice, but a tad expensive, and if you’re not looking for sushi or seafood then another choice may suffice. DePalma’s is a nice Italian place with excellent pastas and pizza. Five is a cool bar hangout with some tasty food as well. If you’re looking for a more casual sit down then I recommend Mugshots. Delicious burgers, endless fries, and plenty of TVs so you can catch the late night games. Also big mugs of beer (obviously) if you’re still up for the challenge.
Have Fun; I Don’t Care if that Sounds Corny
This is a day to cheer on the Tide. Take pics, make friends, eat good food, play some games, and don’t forget to scream “Roll Tide!”. So you know, read my first nine points above. Just some last tips. Try and carpool, as parking and traffic are a mess. The fewer cars the better. The West side of the Quad usually has the most activities going on so, if you have kids make sure you try that out. Also, explore. You’ll meet some interesting characters and it’s nice to soak in the game day life. We’re in the SEC; not everyone has the same experience that we take advantage of every Saturday.
If you have any questions, tips, or want to shout at me for leaving something off. You can reply at the bottom of the page, take a visit to our new forum, or tweet me at @tylerd91.