How to host a taco Tailgate

September 25, 2023

Taco night and tailgates have a lot in common. Both have the power to unite friends, families, fans and even the fiercest of rivals over something that everyone loves: tacos. And when Old El Paso helps you plan a taco spread for a party, “taco” means so much more than just the shell and fillings. From Taco Pizza Pinwheels to Air Fryer Loaded Taco Fries, we’ll set you up with an unstoppable lineup of fun and festive game day recipes and taco tailgate ideas. So what are you waiting for? Put on your game face and get ready to spice it up!

CHECK THE SCHEDULE

If you’re counting down to the next game day, you’ve come to the right place. Of course, your guests always come in #1, so coordinate with your peeps, find a game day that everyone can celebrate and plan for a sellout crowd.

A table holding two plates of tacos and various ingredients

PERFECT THE SPREAD

Once you have your tailgate day on the books, start planning the menu. When it comes to the main dish of the day, who’s going to be your star player? We’ve got you covered with plenty of taco-themed grub! Be it a Slow-Cooker Mexican Meatball Taco Bar or a Tortilla Pocket filling station, you can’t go wrong with any of our game day recipes. Pro tip: check out the lineup of winning appetizers below to round out your food experience.

CALL FOR PLAY

While the game is on the big screen, it’s going to be the main focus. But the breaks in between plays are optimal for group game time. Tailgate classics like cornhole, ladder golf and yard pong are guaranteed hits, and trivia, card games and board games are also great ways to keep everyone entertained, active and working up a hunger. Better yet, do an entertainment potluck and ask your guests to bring a game you don’t have or want to add to your roster.

CAPTURE THE ACTION

Even the most well-attended parties have flight risks — not everyone will be able to stick around for the entire game. So plan ahead! Be sure to grab your phone and capture moments early and often. Then share your highlights with @OldElPaso for a chance to be featured on our social channels!

PLAN FOR A GAME CHANGER

Come halftime, the main spread will be well picked through and your team will probably be ready for a shakeup. Take this opportunity to call an audible and transition to game day appetizers, snacks and treats to keep things interesting. A slight change of pace will help guests stay in the game and avoid a mid-game lull. Try these easy and tasty Old El Paso recipes — take it from us, they’re always big-time crowd-pleasers!

THE HOME STRETCH

Not everyone will stay for the entire game, so capture moments early and often. Then share your highlights with us @OldElPaso for a chance to be featured on our channels.