How to tailgate like you’re a pro: Tips for fans of football in North Carolina
It’s football season in the Triangle, and that means one thing: tailgating! There’s no better place to be than the Triangle if you’re looking for ways to watch live football in North Carolina. Between the Duke Blue Devils, the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, and NC State Wolfpack, locals have plenty of reasons to don their jerseys, set up their grills, and turn a Saturday into an all-day celebration. Add in schools like North Carolina Central University and Shaw University, and it’s easy to see why Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill buzz with football spirit every fall.
Whether you’re a lifelong season ticket holder, a proud alum, or a new fan soaking up the game-day culture, tailgating is one of the best ways to experience North Carolina football. And what does it take for an incredible tailgate? All you need is great food, friends, and a reason to celebrate. We’ve already got great football here in the Triangle. Here’s what else you need to make your tailgate experience unforgettable.
Bring an easy — but crowd-pleasing — tailgate menu
The food is the heart of any tailgate. Whether you’re grilling in the parking lot at Carter-Finley Stadium, firing up some ribs outside Wallace Wade Stadium, or keeping it simple at Chapel Hill’s Kenan Memorial Stadium, you’ll want to plan a menu that’s delicious and easy to manage. Here are some great options for game days:
- Classic Grill Favorites: Many people opt to bring a grill to the game to serve up hot hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, and even ribs and chicken wings. Don’t forget the extras that accompany those foods, such as buns, condiments, and toppings.
- Snack Essentials: Great additions to your party include snack mixes, chips and salsa, pretzels, nachos, or even a crockpot of queso.
- Finger Foods & Sweets: Cookies, brownies, and bite-sized desserts are great for easy sharing.
- Local Flavors: Bring in some NC barbecue, pimento cheese dip, or even Cheerwine or drinks from your favorite local brewery to give your spread that regional flair.
Choose easy recipes for your menu and make sure to bring plenty for your entire group.
Pro tip: Make sure to pack plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated — especially during those early-season games when the North Carolina heat still lingers.
Pack smart for a full day
Tailgating is more than food. It’s logistics, too. The better prepared you are, the smoother your day will go.
Create a tailgate checklist, because if you’ll be out tailgating all day, make sure you’ve got everything you need for a full day.
- Plates, cups, utensils, napkins, paper towels, and trash bags are necessities for the day.
- Folding tables and camping chairs can help you stay comfortable and organized ahead of the game.
- Bring coolers with ice, drinks, and labeled storage to keep your beverage options organized, too.
- Be sure to bring grilling tools, foil, and wipes for cleanup.
- Tents or canopies for shade are a must for hot days.
And don’t forget — Triangle stadiums pride themselves on clean campuses. Always leave your spot as you found it. A tidy tailgate is a respectful one.
Don’t forget the entertainment
Between the food and the kickoff, there’s plenty of time for fun. Tailgate fans love their outdoor lawn games and music, which helps get people hyped before the game starts. Here are some great ways to get people in the mood to celebrate.
- Cornhole – This beanbag game is practically required at any tailgate in North Carolina.
- Football Toss or Frisbee – These games are perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Music – Bring a portable Bluetooth speaker, which sets the tone. Mix school fight songs with your favorite pump-up playlist.
- School Spirit Gear – From blue to red, you’ll see the colors for football in North Carolina everywhere you look at a tailgate. Bring banners, flags, face paint, and foam fingers, which go a long way toward creating game-day energy.
Take it up a notch with tailgate services
If you want to take your tailgating experience to the next level, there are local companies that offer high-level tailgating packages that will wow your friends and family. Raleigh-Durham area offers professional tailgating packages that make it easy to host a big group — so you can truly enjoy football in North Carolina without the hassle.
For example, RevelXP is an official game day partner for NC State and the Tar Heels. They offer customizable tailgate setups with tents, chairs, catering, and media packages for anyone looking for a high-end football experience at these schools.
In addition, Tailgate Group provides everything from media packages, food, and coolers to entire trailers capable of hosting a full party.
These services are especially popular for rivalry games like UNC vs. Duke or NC State vs. UNC, where the parking lots transform into massive, spirited block parties.
Pro tips for game-day success
Before you head into the stadium, keep these insider tips in mind:
- Clear Bag Policy: Most stadiums in the Triangle — including Duke, UNC, NC State, and NCCU — follow the clear bag rule for security. Make sure your personal items fit in a regulation-sized transparent bag.
- Plan for Traffic: Rivalry games and home openers bring crowds. Arrive early to snag a good parking spot and set up without stress.
- Layer Up: Early games can be hot, while late-season matchups in November can get chilly. Pack accordingly.
- Respect the Rivalry: Friendly trash talk is expected but keep it fun and positive. It’s part of the tradition of football in North Carolina.
Where to tailgate in the Triangle
Each Triangle university has its own traditions and tailgating culture:
- NC State Wolfpack (Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh) – Known for one of the most passionate tailgating scenes in the ACC. Fans arrive hours early, and the smell of barbecue fills the lots.
- UNC Tar Heels (Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill) – This stadium provides a family-friendly atmosphere shaded by old oaks, with fans decked out in Carolina blue.
- Duke Blue Devils (Wallace Wade Stadium, Durham) – Duke tends to draw a smaller but tight-knit tailgate community where students and alumni gather with pride.
- North Carolina Central Eagles (O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium, Durham) – Known for its spirited HBCU culture, a NCCE tailgate is complete with music, soul food, and unmatched energy.
- Other Schools in the Area: While schools like Meredith College and Shaw University may not have major Division I football programs, their alumni and student groups still join in Triangle tailgating traditions — especially during big ACC matchups.
Tailgate like a local
Football in North Carolina’s Triangle area isn’t just about the game. It’s about the full-day celebration that comes before kickoff. Whether you’re cheering for the Wolfpack, Tar Heels, Blue Devils, or Eagles, or even an opposing team, tailgating is your chance to connect with friends, celebrate local traditions, and make memories that last long after the final whistle.
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