Tailgating: Step right up to the college football carnival
Some of the more elaborate tailgate meal plans seemingly rival the menu at a five-star restaurant, and the setting can be almost as formal. That’s especially true at Ole Miss, where festivities revolve around the sprawling wooded area on campus known as The Grove.
“The Grove is upscale tailgating. We’re talking about linen. We’re talking about chandeliers. We’re talking about sterling silver. We’re talking about fresh cut flowers,” said Langston Rogers, longtime Mississippi sports information director.
“Tailgating at The Grove is like attending a class reunion or a wedding every weekend. It’s the place to be.”
As in real estate, location is paramount at The Grove. The day before a Rebels home game, fans arrive early to get a spot along the path of the pregame Walk of Champions, during which player and coaches are cheered as they walk under the famous arch of the same name and through The Grove en route to the stadium.
“It’s like a land rush every Friday to find your spot,” Rogers said.
At The Grove, where snapshots of pregame gatherings could be used as magazine ads for Ralph Lauren, what’s on your back is almost as important as what’s on your plate.
espn.com
9/2/08
