Football season is back, and that means parking lots full of grills, folding chairs and coolers packed with cold beer.
But not every beer is built for tailgating. Some are refreshing enough to drink all afternoon, while others pair perfectly with burgers, wings and smoky barbecue.
Here’s a look at some of the best beer styles to bring along this football season.
What Makes a Good Tailgating Beer?
Tailgating is all about good food, good company and a beer that’s easy to enjoy.
The best game-day beers are flavorful without being overly heavy. They should pair well with classic tailgate foods and be easy to sip between kickoff and the final whistle.
That doesn’t mean every beer has to be light, though. Cooler fall weather opens the door to maltier styles that feel right at home next to a plate of barbecue.
So Which Beer Styles Are Best?
There’s no single “official” football beer, but these styles have earned a permanent spot in plenty of coolers.
Here are a few fan favorites:
- Lagers: Crisp, clean and incredibly drinkable. American and German-style lagers are refreshing choices that appeal to just about everyone.
- Pale Ales: A balanced option with enough hop character to keep things interesting without overwhelming your palate.
- Märzen (Oktoberfest) Beers: Rich, toasty and slightly malty, these seasonal favorites are practically made for September football weekends.
- Amber Ales: Smooth caramel notes and moderate bitterness make amber ales a natural partner for grilled burgers and sausages.
- Brown Ales: Nutty, slightly sweet and perfect once the temperatures start dropping later in the season.
A variety pack is never a bad idea either. Tailgates usually include people with different tastes, so having a mix of styles keeps everyone happy.
Should You Bring Big, High-ABV Beers?
Not necessarily.
Imperial stouts, double IPAs and barrel-aged beers can be fantastic, but they probably aren’t the best choice if you’re spending several hours outside before kickoff.
For longer game days, sessionable beers with moderate alcohol levels are often the better pick. They let you enjoy a few throughout the afternoon without overwhelming your palate.
Save the bigger beers for celebrating a big win afterward.
What Foods Pair Best With Football Beers?
Tailgate food is bold, smoky and full of flavor, which makes beer an excellent match.
Some classic pairings include:
- Cheeseburgers with amber ales
- Bratwurst or sausages with Märzen beers
- Buffalo wings with pale ales
- Pulled pork or brisket with brown ales
- Nachos and pretzels with crisp lagers
The goal isn’t finding the “perfect” pairing. It’s choosing beers that complement the food without stealing the spotlight.
Don’t Forget the Cooler!
Even the best beer won’t taste its best if it spends hours sitting in the sun.
Pack plenty of ice, keep the cooler closed whenever possible and chill your beer ahead of time rather than relying on ice alone. Your future self, and everyone else at the tailgate, will appreciate it.
Next time you’re getting ready for kickoff, stop by Druthers Brewing Company and grab a few favorites to take to the tailgate.
Cheers!