Tailgating is one of the cornerstones of the Penn State experience. Before every home football game, tens of thousands of fans line the lots of Beaver Stadium to share a meal, a conversation, and plenty of drinks with their fellow Penn Staters. 

One can argue that the Happy Valley tailgate experience is one of, if not the best, in the nation. You can always count on a good time when in the grassy fields surrounding the athletic facilities, and can experience anything from keg stands to a marriage proposal. Needless to say, many Penn Staters’ best memories have come while tailgating.

This past weekend, Penn State lacrosse parents and fans hosted a tailgate of their own for the lacrosse game against Rutgers. They set up numerous tents and flags, and socialized with one another while indulging in some pregame snacks. It was a display of spirit that perfectly embodied the community aspect of Penn State.

I am here to argue that Penn Staters should adopt this tailgating tradition for more sporting events on campus. 

Part of the purpose of a tailgate is to build hype before the big game. Spending hours in the shadow of Beaver Stadium gets me excited to go watch the boys in the basic blues take the field and hear the roar of the crowd. 

There have been plenty of other games at Penn State this year, in sports other than football, that have generated immense hype. The men’s hockey White Out and the wrestling dual against Iowa are two that come to mind. 

Imagine the scenes that would transpire if folks packed the Pegula Ice Arena and Bryce Jordan Center parking lots before the games. It would only heighten the atmosphere inside the stadiums and help cement Penn State as the rowdiest fan base in college sports. This is not to mention that most of these events occur on weekends, so if students were to indulge in some beverages, they wouldn’t have to worry about waking up for class the next morning.

Tailgating is unique in that it bridges the gap between all generations. No matter what year you are, if you are a student, alum, or just a fan, everyone is welcome. It gives people a chance to bond, share stories, and forge relationships that could last a lifetime.

Penn State has a great culture surrounding sports, and it’s only getting better. But it’s time to take it up a notch. Folks, before the next big game, get out your lawn chairs, unpack the coolers, and get to tailgating. Show up, show out, and make “gameday” a year-round celebration.