Bear Down: Tailgate Style

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Chicago Bears

Bears fan or not you should go to tailgating just once, to experience the excitement, and let’s not forget the food. It’s an experience unlike going to a game.

Crisp air, leaves falling from trees and shorter days all mean one thing it’s football season. You can’t miss seeing fans walking downtown in anticipation of the Bears game, local bars full of fans, and most importantly tailgaters arriving at the games bright and early. Sometimes with all the excitement of the game, we forget about the huge culture of tailgating. People come from near and far to see and celebrate the Monsters of the Midwest.

The Rookies

To understand tailgating you must experience it for yourself. There are so many people who have gone to a Bears game but have yet to step foot into the tailgating parking lots. Kim and Rob Brennan first time tailgating was a surprise. “It’s really fun, lots of people enjoying life, and the energy is amazing”. They also found themselves people watching while sitting on the grass and enjoying the excitement.

Ephriam and Toi Lowe first time tailgaters.(Photo: Kay M., Soldier field, Sept 24, 2017)

Rob and Kim Brennan tailgating for the first time. (Photo: Kay M., Soldier field, Sept 24, 2017)

You can find many Chicagoans who have never been to a tailgate. This could be due to the cost of parking. Many rather not pay for parking and decide to Uber or walk. First-time tailgater Toi Lowe was shocked when she saw parking for the first time simply saying “Parking is Crazy”. Having already paid for a ticket you can see why they rather not pay $50 to $110 for a parking pass.

Flag on the Play: Garbage overload

A reason behind high parking costs could be the number of workers they need to clean up garbage. As tailgating begins to whine down you began to see just how much garbage is left behind. This is not just a problem that the Bears or even NFL tailgating parking lots endure, but one that has trickled down all the way to college football.

The Veterans

No matter how crazy it gets or how much garbage is accumulated you just can’t keep some people away. Even the opposing teams will join in on the fun. Steeler’s fan Phillip Kwit says, “I can’t believe how many Steelers fans are here. It is shocking to see so many fans and not just Bears fans either”. It goes to show you that you just can’t keep a real tailgater away from what they love.

Timeout: Let’s Talk Food

Chris Mottl Grilling Lobster (Photo: Kay M., Soldier Field, Sept 24, 2017)

Jim and Brian Vasquez upgraded from a little hibachi grill.(Photo: Kay M., Soldier Field, Sept 24, 2017)

From burgers, steaks, seafood, or kabobs you dream it, you’ll find it at a Bears tailgate. Any great party wouldn’t be complete without great food. The aroma of barbecue grills, the large display of sides and drinks only add to the excitement. Let’s say you need ideas on what to make for tailgating,

experts have given their best and easy tailgating choices.

Tailgaters are notorious for having the best selection of food but maybe you need a little help or you’re not great on a grill you can hire a Chicago Bears Catering service. They will not only cater the food but clean up after. Miller Lite tailgate areas provide you with tons of fun things to do and catering gives you more time to enjoy them but still get the meal of your dreams.

Win or lose, tailgating brings Chicagoans together and creates a sense of belonging. Behind the game, there is an entire culture created to celebrate not only the Chicago Bears but Chicago itself. The next time you plan on going to a Bears game remember to go tailgating. It’s a hidden gem behind the Monsters of the Midway in Chicago. It’s truly an experience like no other.