The Philadelphia Eagles will host the Washington Commanders for the NFC Championship game this Sunday. Fans will gather outside Lincoln Financial Field far before the scheduled 3 p.m. kick-off, doing what Eagles fans do like no other fanbase — tailgate.
If you’re new to the wonderful world of tailgating or simply looking to brush up on the essentials, Metro has you covered.
Dress for the occasion
This cannot be overstated. To make the most of your Eagles gameday tailgate, you must dress for the occasion. But what does that look like?
Conventional wisdom would say to dress warm for the lots on Sunday. That’s not wrong, as the current forecast calls for a high of 40 degrees amidst thick cloud coverage in the morning. Layer up, and be sure to bring your hats, hoodies, hand warmers, and whatever else you need to beat the elements
Even more important than the type of outfit you wear is the color.
While all true Philly fans bleed green, tailgating Eagles games is a time to show your true colors, inside and out. Whether with gear, color coordination, or, in some cases, body paint, reflecting the reason for the season is key to a successful tailgating experience.
Don’t forget your favorite gameday drinks
Before heading down to the lots, it’s important to stock up ahead of time. There are so many ways to prepare, whether you’re looking to stay hydrated or bring your favorite soft drink. If you’re looking for something with a bit more of a kick, Bird Gang by BOTLD has you covered on all fronts.
This collaboration with the Philadelphia Eagles continues to grow now offering rum and tequila — currently sold out but soon returning — in addition to their bourbon and vodka. Whether as a shot, on the rocks, or mixed in with your favorite cocktail, Bird Gang has a bottle for any drink, any mood, any game, making it a must have on game days for its versatility, in addition to its taste. You can also get your favorite Bird Gang spirits via their new Tailgate Two Packs.
In honor of the Eagles’ latest postseason run, Bird Gang has launched two super limited-edition LeSean “Shady” McCoy Kentucky Bourbon, only available through Feb 9.
Arrive early and find a cozy spot
Friends and family convoy or meet from all across Greater Philadelphia to enjoy pregame festivities in the lots outside Lincoln Financial Field. Whether or not they will ultimately end up inside the stadium for the game, or simply enjoy the party outside while it lasts.
To ensure a quality spot, fans will want to make sure they arrive early. Lots are generally open 4.5 hours before kick off, though there are exceptions, such as lot M which opens up seven hours — that’s 8 a.m. this Sunday — prior to kick off. Plenty of cars will be lined up well in advance of opening, so be sure to factor that into your travel schedule.
While many Eagles fans travel together or meetup, others will make meaningful friendships along the way. A key example of this is the crew in Lincoln Financial Field’s M lot, specifically, those localized at M2.
Building steam after the arrival of the Maestro of the M lot — some better know him as Philatticus, others as Dylan, the community frequently located in the M lot has grown immensely since the Maestro’s arrival in 2022. Lot M serves up some of the most delicious items you’ll find throughout the city.
This Sunday, the Maestro, alongside several partners, will be providing quite the menu — including wild boar, prime rib, calamari, bistecca, bone marrow, dinner dogs, and veggie dogs. Partners will be providing other dinner options, baked goods, and also drinks. Service starts 10 a.m. sharp, so be sure to come hungry and ready to mingle with your fellow fans.
Bonding over a nice hot meal is nothing unfamiliar for those across Philadelphia. The perfect gateway to deepening both conversation and relationships, shared meals have always connected humans. Tailgating is a truly unique experience in Philadelphia. Lot M is a wonderful example of tailgating at its best. There are also other incredibly impressive tailgates all around Lincoln Financial Field. Whether you’re in Lot M, or any of the other notable tailgating locations this Sunday, like lots G or K, don’t forget to properly prepare and to be ready to greet all your fellow fans with a hearty “Go Birds.”
