Tales from the Tailgates
Whether it’s game day, Friday night lights, or a faux fox hunt in the country, half the fun is the party before. Here’s your guide to pregame experiences, plus snacks, tips, and spirit wear to get the most out of any fall tailgate.
By Emma Balcom, John Fox, Greg Hand, Claire Lefton, Elizabeth A. Lowry, Brianna Connock Wayman, Elizabeth Wood
Edited by Brianna Connock Wayman
Illustration by Jim Ticker
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Miami University Celebrates the Cradle of Coaches Legacy
A new documentary streaming on Peacock highlights how legendary coaches with ties to Miami changed football.
Build Your Spiritwear Wardrobe
Turn the tailgate into a runway with colorful team gear.
Hanging Out at Cincinnati’s First Tailgates
Our earliest tailgating experiences were at public executions, horse races, and baseball games.
Tailgating Tips and Tricks
Some basic advice to maximize your tailgate experience.
Essential Tailgating Treats
Looking to be the star of your tailgate party? Bring these fan-favorite noshes and bevs.
How Bengal Jim Hosts the Biggest Tailgate in Town
Jimmie Foster and his friends have been celebrating the Bengals and raising money for charity since 1993.
Horsing Around at Cincinnati’s Fanciest Tailgate
An annual day-long event in Indian Hill takes pregaming to a new level with competitions and prizes.
FC Cincinnati’s Beloved Gameday Prematch Festivities
Tailgating for the Orange and Blue culminates in raucous marches to TQL Stadium.
Party Like an Elder Panther at The Pit
It's a family affair at our local version of "Friday Night Lights".
How to Tailgate Like a Bearcat
Get the complete college football experience at UC's official pregame party.
Editor’s Letter: September 2026
Editor-in-Chief John Fox on Cincinnati's tailgating traditions.
Sponsored
Cradle of Coaches Documentary Makes Its Debut
A pre-launch preview of the documentary focused on Miami University’s famed Cradle of Coaches, now streaming on Peacock.
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Don’t Worry, Bengals Fans, Be Happy
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The Bengals Help Aaron Rodgers Turn Back the Clock in Pittsburgh
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Starting Pitching Was Supposed to Be the Reds’ Strength in 2026 Until It Wasn’t
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Sexy Dexy’s Texas Two-Step Leads the Bengals to 2-0
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Why the Brewers Are Consistent Winners and the Reds Are Not
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Bengals Fans Love It When a Plan Comes Together
Offensive efficiency and defensive improvements added up to a nice win over Tampa, with plenty left to improve on for Week 2 and beyond.
