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Football Season Essentials for Tailgating at Home

Published: August 14, 2026
Author: Bev Nelsen

tailgating party signs

Tailgating isn't just for stadium parking lots. Host a tailgate at home and create a fun gathering that feels like you're part of the action without the expense of tickets or lingering out in the cold and rain.

Fire up the grill, set out the yard games and maybe even bring the TV outside! Just make sure you have ample seating and a spread or gameday snacks to graze on well into the evening. 

The Living Room: Your Game Day Command Center

A big game after a big meal definitley calls for a nap-worthy recline. Wheather you're looking for a true recliner,  reclining sofa or sectional to seat your fellow fans, look for conveniences that take it next level.

three people on a sofa with led lit base watching football came with pizza and wings on the coffee table

Functional Furniture:

  • Cup Holders - For obvious reasons. Prevent spilling during the games ups and downs by keeping that glass out of your hand unless you're sipping from it.
  • Bluetooth Speakers - Feel like you're at the game with the speakers built right into your seat.
  • USB charging ports - Keep all your devices charged so you can keep up on all the other games.

  • Heat and Massage - Add some comfort to those uncomfortable losses with elements that help you relax and find your happy place.
  • Power Lift - Sometimes we all need a hand up when our team falls
  • LED Lighting - No one will notice your tears when the only light in the room comes from the TV and the base of your chair.

Team your seating up with lift top coffee tables and lamps with charging stations so everyone has function at their finger tips. 

two couples enjoying food and beverage on top of coffee table while sitting on a sofa

Beverage Center - The Home Bar

Don't let your fellow fans go thirsty. Keep the beverages close and separate from the smorgasbord for ease of access and to avoid over crowding at each station. 

bar stocked with beverages and matching bar stools

Home Bar and Stools 

Create a place to belly up and a few bar stools for extra seating and close conversation. Make sure your TV is in eye shot.

Why it gets extra points: Allows for bottle and glassware storage 

Penalty: Takes up space you may not have

Bar Cart 

Why it gets extra points: Takes up little space and can be tucked into a corner or rolled from place to place. Also provides bottle and glass storage for an easy grab.

Penalty: No extra seating and limited storage.

Buffet to Table

Using the top of the buffet for the food spread is a great way to keep platters and trays off the dining table for more comfortable seating for those who prefer the dining area for the game. A little more elbow room and a place for the plate and beverage makes the dining room an enviable spot.

Console tables are a good option for smaller spaces or entertaining on a budget. They're also easier to move to another location for tailoring your space for a special gathering. 

Game Day Central - Outside

Move the party outside. It is a tailgate afterall! TVs are becoming more common in outdoor entertainment spaces. A coversation set creates the living room comfort outside. Strike up an outdoor fire and cozy up with your favorite team throw blanket

grilling for an at home tailgating party with red team colors being worn in the background

Let's Tackle This!

Tailgating at home can have the same feel as being there in the stadium parking lot without the long walk, and lines, for a bathroom. Just throw up your team colors, fire up that grill and serve up some fun!

Homemakers Furniture can help you tailgate at home, both inside and out. Discover our College Shop and cheer on your favorite Iowa team!

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