Bruin Nation: The Ultimate UCLA Tailgating Experience
Get ready to paint Westwood blue and gold, because it's time to talk about one of the best parts of UCLA football season - tailgating! Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a freshman to the tailgating scene, this guide will help you make the most of your pre-game celebrations.
True Blue and Gold: The UCLA Tailgating Culture
At UCLA, tailgating isn't just a pre-game activity; it's a cherished tradition that brings together students, alumni, and fans of all ages. The Rose Bowl parking lot transforms into a sea of blue and gold, filled with the aroma of grilled delicacies and the sound of "8-Clap" cheers echoing through the air.
Bruin Bites: Signature Dishes and Drinks
No UCLA tailgate is complete without these fan favorites:
Bruin Burgers: Blue cheese-stuffed patties with gold bell pepper rings
Joe Bruin Nachos: Loaded with UCLA dining hall's famous guacamole
Westwood Wings: Tossed in a honey-sriracha sauce
For drinks, you can't go wrong with:
UCLA Bruberry Lemonade: A refreshing blue and gold layered drink
The Bruin Brew: A signature beer collaboration with a local brewery
Featured Recipe: The Ultimate 8-Clap Sliders
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
8 mini slider buns
4 slices cheddar cheese, quartered
Lettuce and tomato for topping
Instructions:
Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Form into 8 small patties.
Grill for 2-3 minutes each side.
Top with cheese, lettuce, and tomato on slider buns.
Featured Drink: Bruin Blue Margaritas
Ingredients:
2 oz tequila
1 oz blue curaçao
1 oz lime juice
1 oz simple syrup
Gold sugar for rim
Instructions:
Rim glass with gold sugar.
Shake all ingredients with ice.
Strain into glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wedge.
Local Flavor: SoCal Ingredients
Support local businesses by incorporating ingredients from the Westwood Farmers Market. Try grilling up some Santa Monica seafood or adding Carlsbad strawberries to your fruit salad for a true taste of SoCal.
Beyond the Grill: Tailgate Activities
Bruin Cornhole: Custom boards with the UCLA logo
Tailgate Trivia: Test your UCLA sports knowledge
Photo Booth: Complete with props and a cardboard cutout of Coach Kelly
Weather Watch: Tailgating in the SoCal Sun
Remember, it's almost always sunny in LA! Don't forget:
Sunscreen
Canopies or umbrellas for shade
Plenty of water to stay hydrated
Bruin Pro Tip
Arrive early to snag a prime spot near Lot H, known for its electric atmosphere and proximity to the stadium. And don't forget to join in the "Mighty Bruins" sing-along two hours before kickoff!
Are you a seasoned UCLA tailgater? Share your favorite recipes or tailgating tips in the comments below! And don't forget to tag us in your tailgate photos using #BruinTailgate for a chance to be featured in our next post. Go Bruins!
