Southern Style Tailgating at LSU

Saturday in Baton Rouge means tailgating when the Tigers have a home game. LSU tailgating is almost like a religion for some devoted fans. Learn how to tailgate like a Tiger with tips on everything from the best tailgating spots to LSU tailgate recipes sure to be a hit with your crew.

Why Tailgating Is Integral at LSU?

Every college with a football team sees its share of tailgaters on Saturday home games, but the tailgating culture at LSU is unique. The significance starts with the profoundly loyal, passionate fan base that rallies around the LSU Tigers. They’re serious about their team and their tailgating.

The Creole and Cajun culture in Louisiana adds to the uniqueness of LSU tailgating. You see that culture sprinkled throughout the festivities, from the attitude to the menu. Everyone becomes family, even if you don’t know one another before tailgating.

Regular tailgaters at LSU games take the event seriously, coming up with names for their group. They often plan each tailgating session in the summer to make sure everything is just right.

Walking around LSU on game day reveals a party-like atmosphere where no one is a stranger. Tailgaters mingle even if they don’t know one another before that day. Most people bring more than enough food and share plates liberally.

LSU Tailgating Spots

If you pull up an LSU tailgating map, you’ll see many options ideal for setting up your tailgating camp. But don’t expect to roll up a few hours before game time and get a prime tailgating spot. Many loyal Tigers fans set up in the same place for every game, and they get there early to stake their claim. Some people head out as early as Thursday night to set up in the RV lots if the weekend’s game promises to be pivotal. The RV lots are often full by Friday night.

Another consideration is the fact that many lots have reserved parking for tailgating. You can buy passes for those spots during the preseason. Choose a lot that allows for game day parking without a pass. Some lots are free, while others require a paid pass.

In addition to the paid lots around the campus, many people head to the Parade Ground, a large grassy area near the student union. Tents often fill the area, claiming a spot for the group and providing a break from the hot Louisiana sun.

Scope out the parking areas early, so you know where you want to park for tailgating. Have a backup plan in mind in case your first choice is full when you arrive. It’s always wise to arrive early, so you have plenty of time to set up and enjoy your tailgate after you make it through all the traffic. The lots fill up quickly, and the traffic gets busier as game time approaches. Some roads near the stadium close on game day, which limits your options for getting around campus.

LSU Tailgating Rules

Before you head out for tailgating, check out the LSU tailgating policies, so you don’t break any rules. The last thing you want to do is end up in trouble or miss out on tailgating because you fail to follow the guidelines. Remember, tailgating should be fun, but LSU also needs to ensure everyone stays safe and no one damages the campus amid all the festivities.

Here are some highlights of the LSU tailgating rules:

• LSU prohibits live music or other live performances.
• Limit music to your immediate tailgating area, so you don’t disturb others.
• Cookers cannot exceed the size of a 55-gallon drum. You cannot place them in lanes where vehicles drive or in parking spots.
• You can’t cook on Memorial Plaza or the War Memorial.
• Do not cook on exposed aggregate, ornamental concrete, pavers or similar surfaces that might get stained by grease.
• You can use a charcoal grill, but you need to dispose of the used charcoal safely.
• Use battery-operated inverters as a power source when possible. While LSU allows generators, they discourage this equipment due to the noise and potential safety hazards.
• While LSU does not specifically outlaw glass, LSU strongly discourages glass containers due to the potential risk of broken glass.
• You cannot bring any remote-controlled equipment, including drones, on campus.
• The preferred tent size is 10’ by 10’ or smaller. You cannot stake down your tent. You need to take down your tent before you enter the game.

LSU Tailgating COVID-19 Rules

In March 2021, LSU announced it would allow tailgating with restrictions for spring outdoor athletic events. Though they have yet to release any announcements for fall sporting events, you can find the most up-to-date information about LSU tailgating policies here. If you’re curious about what the fall tailgating rules might look like, check out the complete details for spring 2021 LSU tailgates.

Here’s a brief overview of the spring 2021 LSU tailgate rules:

• Gatherings cannot exceed 15 people and should include members of the same household.
• Everyone must wear face coverings outside the tailgate area.
• LSU will secure and restrict the parking lots for outdoor sporting events three hours before kickoff time.
• Fans must adhere to the list of approved tailgate items published by LSU.

Must-Bring LSU Tailgating Supplies

When you tailgate at LSU, you want tools and gear that make the experience more enjoyable and comfortable. Your specific list may vary somewhat depending on how you plan to spend your time tailgating and what you plan to serve. If you’re tailgating with a larger group, coordinate the gear you bring so you have everything covered without unnecessary duplicates.

Use this master tailgating supply list to help you create your list of items to bring:

• Grill, kettle or other cooking appliance
• Fuel
• Pans and other necessary cooking utensils
• Food
• Drinks
• Cooler
• Ice
• Tent
• Chairs
• Trash bags
• Plastic food containers
• Tailgating games and entertainment
• Music
• Speakers
• LSU gear for decorating
• Tables
• First–aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Plates, forks and other eating necessities
• Paper towels
• Jumper cables
• Bottle opener
• Sunblock
• Blankets
• Rain gear
• COVID-19 protection — extra face coverings, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol

Tailgate Setup Tips

Once you find your perfect spot, you’re ready to unload all the gear you brought. If possible, load your gear in plastic tubs with similar items together. For instance, put all your cooking utensils and pots in one container and all your cleaning supplies in another. This makes it easier to find the items you need when you arrive. The tubs also help protect everything during transport and if it should start raining while you tailgate.

Set up the large items first. This includes your cooking device and tables and chairs. Keep your grill or other cooking devices away from the main flow of traffic to prevent burns. Arrange your tent over the area to help shield everyone from the sun. Keep in mind that you cannot set up tailgating items in the traffic lanes or other parking spots at the LSU stadium.

LSU Tailgate Setup Service

Once you find your perfect spot, you’re ready to unload all the gear you brought. If possible, pack supplies in plastic tubs, grouping similar items together. For instance, put all your cooking utensils and pots in one container and all your cleaning supplies in another. Doing so makes it easier to find the items you need when you arrive. The tubs also help protect everything during transport and if it starts raining while you tailgate.

Set up the large items first, including your grill, tables and chairs. Keep your grill or other cooking devices away from the main flow of traffic to prevent burns. Arrange your tent over the area to help shield everyone from the sun. Keep in mind that you cannot set up tailgating items in the traffic lanes or other parking spots at the LSU stadium.

Southern Cajun Tailgate Recipes

The tailgating menus at LSU games are often different than what you see in typical tailgating settings. Sure, you’ll see the classic grilled entrees and barbecue at some encampments, but you’ll also see a heavy Cajun influence. Many tailgaters cook and serve local cuisine on game day.

Check out these LSU tailgate menu must-haves!

Jambalaya

Serve up one of the most iconic food options of the area when you add jambalaya to your tailgating menu. You can cook the jambalaya at home or in a giant pot at your tailgate, depending on your preference. Jambalaya is a versatile rice recipe with different possibilities for add-ins, including chicken, sausage, shrimp and crawfish. Yellow onions, bell peppers and celery are staples in the dish, as are plenty of Creole seasonings.

Gumbo

Another Louisiana staple is gumbo. Like jambalaya, gumbo is an easy dish to cook in a huge pot while you tailgate, and it’s versatile with options to adjust the ingredients to your preferences. Think of it as the Southern version of chili while tailgating. Bell pepper, onion and celery are common in gumbo. Typical proteins in gumbo include sausage, chicken, crawfish, shrimp and crab. The traditional gumbo dish includes rice.

Shrimp

Seafood is a standard option for LSU tailgate menus. Shrimp is an easy seafood option to cook while tailgating. One simple method of preparation is grilling the shrimp. Skewer the shrimp to keep them from falling into the grill, and add your choice of seasonings — the spicier, the better. You can wrap the shrimp in bacon before grilling for a little extra flavor.

Deep-Fried Food

LSU fans love fried food, and you’ll see a lot of it on game day. Fans will fry almost any type of entrée, including seafood, chicken and turkey. Load up your deep fryer and the ingredients for your favorite fried foods. Remember, you will have hot grease to deal with after tailgating, so start cooking early to give the oil plenty of time to cool.

Boudin

Hot dogs and brats are popular in other areas, but in Southern Louisiana, boudin is the sausage dish of choice. The sausage includes pork, rice and spices for a unique dining experience. You can grill the boudin on game day for a delicious main dish.

Spicy Chicken Wings

Spicy is the way to go at a Southern tailgate. Fry spicy chicken wings at your tailgate for fresh results. Toss the wings in a spicy sauce before serving.

Muffuletta Sandwich

A muffuletta sandwich is another classic Southern option you can make ahead for easy game day eats. The sandwich uses an olive salad, deli meats and cheese on round Italian-style bread. You can buy an olive salad or make your own by combining chopped black and green olives, drained and chopped vegetable giardiniera, marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped roasted red peppers and fresh parsley. Italian meats typically included in the sandwich are mortadella, salami and capicola, but you can adapt the meat to your tastes. Provolone is another favorite. Layer the meat, cheese and olive salad on the bread.

Gator

You won’t find gator on the menu at every LSU game, but it is a popular option when the Tigers take on the Florida Gators. You can grill or fry the gator if you choose to serve it at your LSU tailgate.

LSU Tailgating Treats

It doesn’t feel like a tailgate without a little something sweet. After you’ve enjoyed the main portions of your LSU tailgate feast, top it off with one of these Southern sugary treats.

• LSU cupcakes: Show off your team spirit by making some cupcakes from scratch and frosting them in LSU’s trademark purple and gold.
• LSU cake pops: What could be cuter — or tastier — than LSU cake pops decorated to look like Mike the Tiger’s face? If you’re feeling extra ambitious, make the inside portion of the cake pop a mix of purple and yellow cake.
• Football marshmallow crispy treat: It’s easy to create a cute and tasty tailgate treat by shaping marshmallow crispy treats into tiny footballs.
• Peanut butter football cookies: Peanut butter cookies cut and decorated to resemble mini footballs is a sweet, simple and snackable tailgate treat.
• Banana pudding: Are you really in the South if you don’t have banana pudding? You can round out your tailgate with regular banana pudding or take things up a notch by making chocolate and peanut butter banana pudding.
• Mississippi mud brownies: Brownies are better in the South. You can up your brownie game by making Mississippi mud brownies, which feature ooey-gooey marshmallows and toasted pecans.
• Buttermilk chess tarts: Turn the classic Southern pie into a tailgate favorite by transforming it into a handheld tart.
• Lemon bars: What could be more refreshing than a zesty lemon bar on a hot Southern afternoon? Make your tailgate complete with a batch of these delicious citrus squares.
• Fried pies: A Southern-style tailgate means frying everything, including dessert. You can give your guests a genuine game day treat by making apple hand pies and popping them in the deep fryer.
• Deep-fried Twinkie: You can’t get more Southern than this — a deep-fried Twinkie on a stick is the ultimate tailgate indulgence.

LSU Tailgating Tips

You have your menu planned and your spot chosen. You feel ready to tailgate at the next LSU game, but it never hurts to be extra prepared.

Keep these tailgating tips in mind to make your day go smoothly.

• • Come ready to party: Tailgating at LSU is a party-like environment, so be ready to get a little crazy – or at least watch others do so.
  • Arrive early: The earlier you head to the campus, the better your chances of finding a good spot. Many tailgaters set up hours in advance. Three hours in advance is late by most standards. It’s safe to set up your tent frame starting Friday at 5 p.m. to hold your spot.
  • Watch the band processional: Every home game, the LSU band, team and mascot Mike the Tiger head down Victory Hill two hours before the game. It’s a festive event that gets the crowd fired up. Don’t miss your chance to see it.
  • Visit Mike the Tiger: If you don’t want to watch the processional, you can head to Mike’s lavish pen earlier in the day to see him. Having a live tiger as a mascot sets LSU apart and makes for a fun addition to your tailgating experience.
  • Watch the game from your tailgate: You don’t need a ticket to the game to watch it on campus. Many people set up TVs in their tailgating areas and watch from there rather than going into the stadium. Bring your TV or join in with another group. It’s a very welcoming atmosphere, so you can likely find a group to adopt you if you prefer to watch from outside the stadium.
  • Practice food safety: Baton Rouge is hot, even in the fall, so you want to take extra precautions to keep all perishable foods safe throughout your tailgate. Bring plenty of ice to keep the cooler cold. Store perishable foods in your cooler until you’re ready to serve. When you’ve finished eating, put the leftovers back in the cooler to avoid food poisoning.
  • Handle prep work at home: Cooking at the tailgate is part of the fun, but you can save a lot of time by handling some of the prep work in advance. Do all your cutting at home, so you don’t have to bring a knife and cutting board. Make sauces and other items at home.
  • Clean up: Tailgating is fun, but it also generates lots of trash. Pick up after yourself as you go, so you don’t leave a huge mess behind. Pack extra trash bags in case there isn’t a convenient trash can near your tailgating location.

Grab–and–Go Food in Baton Rouge

Tailgating at LSU is all about being present. You want to get there early and stay all day to thoroughly experience the party. Save yourself some time by opting for grab–and–go options that you can enjoy on the way to campus and while you’re there.

Milford’s on Third offers a wide variety of grab–and–go foods that are perfect for tailgating days. Start your day of partying with thousands of new friends with a jolt of caffeine when you pick up coffee at Milford’s on Third. Fill your stomach with a bagel and your choice of schmear, or top your bagel with salmon, bacon and other hearty options. If bagels aren’t your thing, choose muffins, scones, fruit, granola, yogurt or one of many other grab–and–go breakfast options.

Keep yourself fueled through every game of cornhole or beer pong with the best deli sandwiches in Baton Rouge. Enjoy the NYC-style delicatessen offerings with a variety of fresh sandwich filling options. You can even call ahead, so your order is ready to get you to the LSU campus faster. Don’t forget to pick up some cold sides and salads to round out the meal and cookies for dessert!

Cater Your Tailgates

If grab-and-go isn’t your style, Milford’s on Third offers catering options specifically for tailgates. Order assortments of sandwiches from the Tiger Tailgating Menu to feed everyone at your tailgate. Milford’s on Third tailgating menu packages can feed about six linebackers or ten kickers. Figure out how many people will hang out at your tailgate and order enough food to satisfy everyone. Sandwich platters come with different chips and it’s always a good idea to have extra on hand when people get hungry at the big game.

When you order catering from Milford’s, you save yourself time before and during the tailgate since you won’t have to prep or cook any food. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy the game and spending time with everyone.

Are you ready to tailgate at the next LSU game? Call Milford’s on Third at 225-408-2600 to order your tailgate catering packages or head to our website to fill out our contact form today.