The start of football season is always a good excuse to gather friends and family together to cheer on your favorite team. Whether you’re headed to the stadium or watching the big game at home, we’ve come up with a few ideas to help you set the play in motion for tailgating fun with kids in Des Moines.
Show Your Team Spirit
Of course, you’ll want to pick a color scheme from your favorite team! We’ve helped you out by creating some party printables for ISU, U of I and UNI fans. (If you’re a house divided, mix them up, and use both:) Keep in mind that you don’t have to go overboard with team paraphernalia to make the party fun and festive. Just a touch here and there will keep the tailgate tasteful.
Click link to downlad FREE Party Printables!
09.07.16 ISU Cyclones Tailgate Printables
09.07.16 UofI Hawkeyes Tailgate Printables
09.07.16 UNI Panthers Tailgate Printables
Dress to Impress
Let’s face it, some kids may not even be interested in watching the game, but they’ll love showing off where their loyalties lie on game day. Even infants can get in on the action. Who can’t help but love these cute outfits found at local retailers?!?
- University of Iowa Hawkeyes Cap – The Stadium
- UNI Panthers Can’t Be Beat T-Shirt – Scheels
- Girls Toddler Bowtie Sundress – Scheels
- Iowa City Mash Up Bib – RAYGUN
- ISU Football Infant Onesie – The Stadium
Play Football
Who says the players on the field get to have all the fun? Bring along a football, gather the fam together and get everybody moving by playing a football game of your own. Divide into teams, review the rules for a fun and friendly family game. Opt for touch or flag football to keep anyone from getting hurt and use this opportunity to teach the importance of good sportsmanship.
Eat, Drink and Be Cheery
What would a tailgate be without something to nosh on? Think simple, portable and ready to eat. It seems like tailgates have gotten so elaborate these days, but they really don’t have to be! We have gathered a few fun and easy dishes for your next big football tailgate party.
- Black Bean and Sweet Corn Guacamole Dip – Iowa Food & Family Project
- Sour Dough Pretzels – The Gingered Whisk
- Perfect Pulled Pork – Iowa Pork Producers Association
- Lighter Butterscotch Bars – Iowa Girl Eats
We want to know! What are your tips for tailgating with kids?
