Milwaukee loves a good tailgate. So much, in fact, that we do it year round. Tailgating in winter is actually a thing in Wisconsin. Take for example, the Milwaukee Brewers aptly named Arctic Tailgate, held in February (!) when single game tickets go on sale & single digits can be in the forecast, and faithful fans line up for hours – overnight, even – for their first chance at tickets to see the Crew in action.
If you’ve been longing for a good, old-fashioned, Wisconsin tailgate, let us remind you that the Packers and the Bucks are playing now so you don’t need to give up your favorite pre-game activity. The Bucks new parking garage has a rooftop with great views and 150 parking spaces. And tailgating is a time-honored tradition at Lambeau Field. Just make sure to plan your food fest well. You don’t want to miss the opening kick-off.
We firmly believe that there is no wrong way to tailgate – there are simply some ways that are more excellent than others. Tailgating is an art form and perfection can be achieved through practice. Whether you’re a novice or an expert tailgater, you can’t lose because you’re sure to have incredible eats and a great game in your future.
Grebe’s “Quick Start” Tailgate Guide
First, consider the logistics. You want to get to the park 2-3 hours early, depending on how you feel about possibly missing the first few minutes of the game. Select your mood music ahead of time based on the sport. For example, if it’s a baseball tailgate, put together a playlist of walk-up songs. Then bring something you can throw that’s not food — like a football, baseball or frisbee.
Second, plan the menu. Here’s where it gets fun. The tailgate trifecta is burgers, brats, and beer, but don’t let that limit you. Most people will welcome a change of pace…except, of course, for the beer. You have to keep that. It’s the only thing you can’t buy from us so pick it up ahead of time, along with plenty of ice, water, and non-alcoholic beverages.
For an all-in-one easy choice, order the Baked Badger Ham Special. With three pounds of ham, two pounds of your choice of potato salad, and 24 fresh baked rolls, you can easily feed 8-10 people. Pro tip: Wrap the ham in foil and place on the grill for a nice smoky flavor. Bring several different kinds of mustard (you can get that from us, too!) and add a relish tray to complete the yumminess.
For diehard carnivores who don’t want to limit their options, we recommend the gourmet meat and cheese trays. Add rolls, potato salad, and a relish tray, and you can feed two van loads of hungry weekend warriors. They want hot food, you say? Well, then substitute the meat and cheese trays for turkey or roast beef & gravy.
Don’t worry – we haven’t forgotten the vegetarians. Our fresh veggie tray plus the fruit tray plus the cheese platter equals a mouth-watering, meat-free meal.
No tailgate is complete without sweets. For the easiest possible sugar binge, we recommend hand-held treats. Grab a bag of cruller bites (original, chocolate dipped, or our current seasonal option – pumpkin spice!) and a cup (or three) of donut holes. Don’t forget a dozen or so of our team themed cookies or cupcakes. Whether it’s the Brewers, the Bucks, or the Packers, you can celebrate your team loyalties by waving a cookie in one hand and a cupcake in the other.
With all the great feedback you’ll hear, you’ll feel like you’ve won before the game even starts! Call ahead to place your order before the next game and you’ll be ready for the easiest, tastiest tailgate you’ve ever hosted.
