Tailgating will be in full swing this weekend as the football season is underway, and the weather is still comfortable in much of the country. The roots of tailgating date back to Victorian days, when the upper class would put boxes of food and beverages on the back of their carriage and venture out into the countryside or to a sporting event for a picnic. Today, the essence continues, but tents, grills, and fixings have evolved into an elaborate setup and a day-long pastime.
Like so many things, the original purpose of the activity has been lost to commercialization and the perceived need to out-Instagram others. People are paying designers $20,000 to decorate dorm rooms. Senior pictures now rival professional modeling shoots. A cute Jack-o-Lantern on the porch has been replaced with multiple inflatables costing hundreds each.
Before you jump into the winter holidays and run yourself ragged trying to reenact a Martha Stewart home, instead, think of the original tailgaters and embrace the simplicity of a relaxing moment with friends.
Thanks, Meg!
