Football, like many things, is better enjoyed with friends. Whether they’re into the sport or not, getting a group of friends together to hang out for or after a game is always a good time. And just because tailgating a football game isn’t really a thing here in Canada, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have something just as great. 

Well – that’s homegating, which is a great way to cheer on your favourite team without having to freeze in a parking lot and spend all that extra time setting up. While homegating does require some organization and preparation, it ends up being an all-around great time while you’re still in the comfort of your own home – or your friend’s place. In my opinion, that trade off is a good enough reason to choose homegating over tailgating every single time. 

Instead of just writing/talking about it, I really wanted to give it a shot and see what it would be like to throw a full homegating experience. Although I love having the guys over to play Madden 19 and NBA 2K19 quite often (which I often consider as mini-homegating or simply chilling), I decided that I would go all out and prepare a more legitimate atmosphere for the occasion. With the help of NFL Canada and a couple of willing friends, I somehow managed to get a nice homegating party going – and to be completely honest, it was a fantastic time. 

With the setup in mind, it does helps put in some effort. You don’t really need much, but the more you add to it, the more wholesome the experience becomes and people will genuinely appreciate that. Getting the details right with streamers and balloons really adds to the overall vibe – along with fan gear and smaller touches – such as matching cups and cutlery. For the most part however, everyone is going to be gathered around the TV, so having some appropriate finger foods and drinks are a must. 

Here are a few more things to consider:

• Get friends involved; instead of having everyone stand/sit around, it becomes more enjoyable getting everyone to be apart of the whole thing, whether it’s helping setup or prepping food!

• You can’t go wrong with potluck style homegating. If everyone brings something, it adds variety – and that’s always great!

• Have a variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – again, variety is good and not everyone is into drinking.

• Get some games going; it adds to the fun, and the interactive element goes a long way.

• Fan gear is key! There’s nothing like everyone being in the right mentality and looking the part. It’s more fun that way!

Regardless of how you choose to do it, it’s an option that you cannot go wrong with. I’m becoming a bit of a homebody as of late, so I may be a little biased here, but homegating is one of those things that you’ll have a great time doing, whether you’re into sports or not.

In the spirit of American Thanksgiving, Black Friday and football, I wanted to also share a little something with you guys in case you were planning on setting up for your own homegating – or even to pick up some extra fan gear. Below is a code that will give you an exclusive 30% off purchases from NFLShop.ca. See below for code details:

• Code Valid Date: Friday, November 23 – Tuesday, November 27
• Discount Amount: 30%
• Code: ABSDULLA30
• Direct Link: www.nflshop.ca/couponid/ABSDULLA30/source/bm-nflcom-CAN-soc-Influ-Absdulla

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All photos are courtesy of Julie Yeh (@julie_yay), who helped out in many ways and contributed to the overall success of this sweet homegating party. 

And thank you @NFLCanada for the #HomegatingKit !