In the last post, we discussed opportunities for fall entertaining. One fairly common way to entertain during the autumn is tailgating. Since tailgating doesn't happen on your own turf (unless you live under the stadium), there are some special considerations if you plan to host a tailgate party:

• Carefully review any guidelines provided by the team. Most stadium parking lots limit the equipment you can bring — by both size and type. Others limit the alcohol you can bring and serve or the types of containers you can use or the ways you can collect and dispose of your trash. Know the rules and make your plans in accord wth them.
• Tailgating at a place that requires travel means extra planning. You'll need to identify more foods that do not require refrigeration and/or get a hotel room with a refrigerator and/or find a local grocery store for perishables and/or bring coolers and ice.
• Plan your menu with care. Your cooking options will be limited to foods you can make on a small grill and a crock pot (if you have an outlet in your car). If you are traveling away from home, you won't be able to cook things at home, transport and warm them. Focus on simply cooked items that can be complemented by things you don't have to cook on site, such as a crock pot of chili with a variety of toppings, avcompanied by corn muffins or served in mini-bread bowls.
• Multiple courses are nice. Start with light snacks, followed by the main course, and something sweet to finish.
• Make sure you have non-alcoholic beverage options and a designated driver for the trip home.
• Bring plenty of garbage bags (plus something to carry your recyclables. Celebrating is no reason to litter.
• Bring a table some chairs (collapsible camping chairs or studio chairs work well. An umbrella or tarp (if allowed) can be handy in case of bright sun or rain. A little decor is a good thing as well. A tablecloth, banners, etc. add some atmosphere.
• Make sure you bring storage containers for leftovers. If you are traveling a distance, have a plan to get rid of the leftovers in a non-wasteful manner.

What are your suggestions for the perfect tailgate?