I believe fall is the most underrated season for car enthusiasts. At least in places where folks get four full seasons. Sure, there may be fewer events to attend, and the weather may be less predictable. But the cooler temps are certainly easier on the older cars (not to mention drivers, especially those without air conditioning). And the mellow autumn light conspires with the bursting colors from the trees to make for epic some pictures.
Regardless of where you live, fall is certainly the perfect time for that classic American tradition: tailgating. Perhaps most often associated with college football games, it’s undoubtedly a popular way to gather with old friends over food and drinks before joining the crowd in the stadium for the alma mater’s fight song before kickoff. Images of picnic baskets on plaid blankets spilling out of one of Detroit’s finest station wagons immediately come to mind.
And of course, such a fine tradition carries over into the parking lots of pro football venues just as well. Even if you’re not a sports fan, fall itself is reason enough to hop in your classic and go tailgating. Whether it’s a local harvest festival, an outdoor concert, or just to satisfy your nostalgic urge, tailgating makes the perfect fall outing in a classic vehicle.
Elements of a Great Tailgate Display
Plaid – On cloth napkins and woven tablecloths if you can. On paper napkins and plates if you must. Rich colors, picnic patterns. Bonus for also wearing seasonal plaid (see last item).
Blankets – Woolrich, preferably. Hunting or lumberjack patterns always welcome, or gray if you’re going solid. Leave the microfleece at home this time.
Wicker Baskets – Classic picnic hampers are proper, ideally with leather closures. An easy addition to your tailgating kit. $10-20 at any thrift shop. Spend another $5 and you can stock with honest-to-goodness silverware.
Steel Coolers – Coleman’s Steel-Belted series is king. Aladdin and Thermos are both solid backups, and Coca-Cola branded items always look right. A little beat up is never a problem.
Food and Drink – In the picnic basket, a bucket of cold KFC. In a vacuum-insulated steel Thermos bottle, homemade soup. In the cooler, Coca-Cola in small glass bottles. In a vintage suitcase decorated with travel stickers, a bar set with cocktail service for Old Fashioneds and Moscow Mules.
Dress for the Occasion – Go ahead, find an outfit that matches your tailgate theme and the event you’re attending. Give the usual car-themed graphic tee and cargo shorts a much-needed break. I promise, it won’t hurt.
