Top 10 Tailgating Traditions and Promo Pairings

There’s something electric about tailgating season... it’s more than just a pregame party; it’s a celebration of school spirit, community, and timeless traditions. Across the country, universities take tailgating to a whole new level, blending unique rituals, local flavors, and die-hard fan enthusiasm. This year, we’re honoring the excitement by spotlighting 10 universities famed for their tailgates, pairing each one with a promo product that fits their style and enhances every fan’s game day.

1. Texas Longhorns

Tailgate Tradition:  Smokin’ Brisket + Bevo Parade - Tailgates in Austin are BBQ heaven—brisket, burnt ends, and jalapeño poppers abound. Before kickoff, Bevo (the live longhorn steer) makes his grand entrance, escorted with fanfare and Texas pride. 

Promo Item: Cuisinart® Outdoors Chef's Style Stainless Tabletop Grill

2. Georgia Bulldogs

Tailgate Tradition: The Dawg Walk - Fans line up outside Sanford Stadium to cheer the players during their pregame walk, led by UGA (the bulldog mascot). Southern food, red solo cups, and calls of "Go Dawgs!" fill the Athens air. 

Promo Item: Tailgate Table with Cooler

3. Alabama Crimson Tide

 Tailgate Tradition: The Quad Experience - Generations of fans gather on the University Quad, setting up white tents with gourmet spreads and chandeliers. There’s no shortage of houndstooth or legendary hospitality near Bryant-Denny. 

Promo Item:  10’ Pop Up Tent

4. Ohio State Buckeyes

Tailgate Tradition: Skull Session - Thousands cram into St. John Arena for the band’s intense pregame performance. The team joins to pump up fans—tailgating here is serious but organized, with plenty of scarlet, gray, and brats. 

Promo Item:   Clear Tote Bag

5. Penn State Nittany Lions

Tailgate Tradition: RV Nation & The White Out - A small city of RVs floods State College days early. When it’s a White Out game, the visual spectacle is unmatched. Creamery ice cream and pepperoni rolls? Count us in. 

Promo Item: :  Portable Bar

6. Oregon Ducks

Tailgate Tradition: Sustainable Tailgating & Duck Walk - Eugene leads the green movement—solar panels, zero-waste coolers, even electric tailgating rigs. The Duck Walk (led by the mascot riding a Harley) revs up Autzen Stadium before kickoff. 

Promo Item:  Wood Cornhole 

7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Tailgate Tradition: Trumpets Under the Dome - Before tailgating kicks off on the quads, fans gather inside the Golden Dome to hear the marching band’s trumpets echo through history. Then it's time for Midwest classics: sausages, pierogies, and Guinness.

Promo Item:  Heritage Supply Traveling Mixologist Tote Kit

8. Texas A&M Aggies

Tailgate Tradition: Midnight Yell Practice - Thousands gather the night before games in Kyle Field for choreographed yells led by “Yell Leaders.” Game day tailgating is big on BBQ, cowboy boots, and unwavering spirit (never "cheering"—always "yelling"). 

Promo Item:  Freestyle Rocker

9. Miami Hurricanes

Tailgate Tradition: Cuban Tailgates & City Vibes - Tailgating at Hard Rock Stadium is a cultural blend of Cuban sandwiches, dominoes, reggaeton beats, and tropical shirts. It’s South Beach meets college football—with swagger. 

Promo Item: Sound Split Waterproof Speaker

10. Auburn Tigers

Tradition: Tiger Walk + Toomer’s Corner 
Fans line Donahue Drive to cheer on players in the Tiger Walk. After the game, win or lose, it's off to Toomer’s Corner to roll the iconic oak trees with toilet paper. 

Promo Item: YETI® Tundra® 35 Cooler

Make Your Tailgate Unforgettable

Want to take your game day experience up a notch? The right promotional products can help you stand out from the crowd.

Whether you're planning a tailgate or hosting an event, Symphonix is here to bring your ideas to life. From useful gear to eye-catching branded swag, we work with businesses to create promo solutions that leave a lasting impression.

Let’s team up—schedule a call with Symphonix and make this tailgating season your best one yet.