Game On: Inside Tailgating Culture
By Brett Martin
In the American South, tailgating isn’t just about the football game—it’s also about the food. Brett Martin explores the rich culture surrounding the pregame event and gets a hearty sampling of gumbo—not to mention ribs, pie, potato salad, and much more—along the way.
Ole Miss Misses
Ole Miss sorority gals have a pregame cocktail.
And a One, and a Two!
Cheerleaders rally the crowd on the Grove.
Cap It Off With a Drink
Raising a flask to Ole Miss.
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Rove the Grove
Strolling in the Grove before the game.
Jay’s Ribs
LSU alum Jay Ducote’s barbecue ribs in the keg smoker.
Okra Included
Doing it right with a Bloody Mary.
Helmet Heads
Game faces…on.
Crimson Crowd
The crowd mobilizes.
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No Cold Shoulder Here
Smoked pork-shoulder sandwich, taunting anyone who walks by.
Football Feast
No one leaves hungry.
Soup’s On!
The gumbo is served.
All Hail the King
An Elvis impersonator is also the DJ, because of course.
Photos: Cedric Angeles
For a behind-the-scenes look at tailgating culture at its most passionate, see Brett Martin’s piece on Bon Appétit.
More from Bon Appétit:
6 Peanut Butter Alternatives for Sandwiches
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7 Tips for Making Your Cake Taste—and Look—Way Better
