Tailgating Items to Add to Your Checklist
Photo by Hale Horstman, 2023.
By Ryan Biddix
College football season is in full swing, and Steeplechase is galloping ever closer on our
calendars. It’s time to shift from just watching the games to fully participating in the excitement
of the event. The best way to elevate your experience this fall is to work on your tailgating
game! Whether you’re a trained tailgater or new to the track, let’s delve into some unexpected
yet essential items you should pack for race day at The Steeplechase of Charleston on Nov. 10.
First, let’s start with what’s not allowed on the racetrack to avoid unsafe or unnecessary
situations. While grills are a popular item at tailgating parties, due to the nature of this event,
open flames, grills, propane tanks, and fireworks are prohibited. To keep your food warm,
consider using a warming tray.
To further ensure the safety of our guests and equine athletes, items such as parasols, sun
umbrellas, and beach and patio umbrellas are not permitted at Steeplechase. If shade is what
you’re seeking, consider purchasing a tailgating spot to set up a tent.
Now, let’s focus on what you can bring. Here are some items that will transform your basic tailgate into a beautiful and bountiful one!
What To Take To Your Tailgate
- Food Tents/Covers
Instead of spending the day guarding your dishes and swatting away pesky bugs, invest in pop-up food covers. These are often light-weight, portable and made of mesh. - Portable Trash Bag Holder
If you don’t want to keep trekking to the trashcan, place a portable trash bag holder in your tailgating area to keep the environment clean and free of debris. - Cooler with Cup Dispenser
Don’t want to wait in line for a beverage? Bring along a cooler with a cup dispenser to serve your guests some sweet iced tea as they watch the racehorses speed by. - Tablecloths
Take your drab, plastic folding table to the heights of elegance with the addition of a tablecloth. From patterned to stretchy spandex, there are a variety of textiles to choose from. For an added touch, throw a table runner on top for a layered effect. - Portable Power Bank
From the tailgate to the track, you won’t want to miss any of the special moments at
Steeplechase. Bringing a portable power bank will ensure your phone is fully charged and ready for a full day of events.
Finishing Touches
Decorations will transform a simple patch of grass with a tent into a proper tailgating space.
Anything from bouquets of flowers to horse statues, make your spot stand out with special
decorations. Take inspiration from past set-ups by viewing the photo gallery on our website or
on our social media pages.
While this isn’t an exhaustive list of things to purchase or bring, these extra items will improve
your tailgating experience and space!
Don’t feel like packing anything? Then enter our Ultimate Tailgating Giveaway before Sept.
30! This giveaway is valued at $1,300 and includes a tailgate space with four general
admission tickets, a 10×10 tent canopy (set up before arrival), four chairs, a table, and a tailgate
spread provided by Hamby Catering.