Guide to Sports Party & Tailgate Planning

San Diego sports are best celebrated with good friends, quality eats and enough beer to cheer through the season (or cure the pain of a hard loss). Whether it’s Padres or the Chargers, throwing a proper sports party takes more than just some team spirit and a new jersey. Prep the right way with these sports party and tailgate tips.  

Catering: Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop is any sports fan’s go-to. The sandwiches are perfect for game days, and the party trays make for ideal catering options.  Capriotti’s can cater for any size event, starting under $5 per person. And even if you’re not hosting a full-fledged party, Capriotti’s can also deliver to the SDSU area for free every Saturday and Sunday until 8pm for college and NFL games. While some like to tailgate, others might prefer to come inside for an indoor meal, or even host their own party with the Capriotti’s flavor as a fixture on their menu. The national chain is applauded for their real-deal sandwiches, such as The Bobbie, made with homemade turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and mayo; the Capastrami made with hot pastrami, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and cole slaw; or the traditional Homemade Turkey, with fresh, slow roasted, pulled turkey made fresh daily. For more information, visit capriottis.com

Venue: Party in style during the games at any of the three Tavern+Bowl locations. At East Village Tavern+Bowl, Eastlake Tavern+Bowl and North County Tavern+Bowl, they go all out with up to 12 lanes of bowling action, ample pool tables, tons of flat screen TVs, food and bar packages, corporate team building opportunities, Powerpoint and DVD capabilities, a wireless mic, booming sound system and an iPod jack. Food packages include the Backyard Grill with hamburger sliders, hotdogs, potato salad and more; the Fajita Fiesta with fajita style chicken and beef, grilled peppers and onions; or the High Roller package with NY strip steak and ahi tuna, garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus and more. For more information, visit tavernbowl.com

Tailgate: Cali Party Bus can take your tailgate to the next level with Chargers game packages fit for any size party. Roll up to Qualcomm big and bad in a Cali Party Bus, as your crew enjoys beer along the way, Phil’s BBQ catering, pop-up tents, tables and chairs, beer pong and your very own personal DJ to spin some beats. From small groups to large parties (up to 500) the Cali Party Bus Chargers Tailgate will get your team cheering the right way while also getting you home safely at the end of the night. All-inclusive packages range from $60-$100 per person depending on pick up location, food selection and number of passengers. For more information, visit calipartybus.com

Discover more planning ideas in Private Events & Catering Guide