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Florida Tailgate

Published August 18, 2023, updated August 22, 2023

Florida Gators game day recipes and cocktails! These appetizers, sweet treats & drinks are perfect for a Gators Tailgate!

As University of Florida alumni, my husband and I are no strangers to the wonders of the Florida Tailgate. We met in college while attending Florida and have continued to enjoy celebrating our alma mater every football season, year after year!

From setting up our tailgating tent on campus, to cheering on our players during the Gator Walk, we have fully immersed ourselves in the game day culture in Gainesville.

Florida Football Facts

Let’s get to know a little more about the Florida Gators:

Location: The University of Florida is located in Gainesville, Florida
Stadium: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (The Swamp)
Mascot: Albert and Alberta Gator
Team Colors: Orange and Blue
Team Saying or Chant: “Go Gators!”
Marching Band: The Pride of the Sunshine
Fight Song: “The Orange and Blue”

Florida Tailgate Food

Tailgating at the University of Florida is sure to be a good time, but we know that the food and drink selections can make or break the party.

These Florida-inspired cocktails, appetizers and desserts are guaranteed to wow the crowd and keep everyone fueled for game day fun!

Cocktails: Citrus Rum Punch & Swamp Water Cocktail
Appetizers: Orange Glazed Chicken Wings & Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels
Desserts: Key Lime Pie Truffles & Alligator Cupcakes

Citrus Rum Punch – Creative Culinary

This Citrus Rum Punch is a delicious blend of several fruits, rum, and maraschino liqueur. Try it out with fresh Florida orange juice; a perfectly refreshing drink for tailgating in the steamy Swamp!

Check out this recipe

Swamp Water Cocktail – The Mixer

The Swamp Water Cocktail is an obvious choice for game day in Gainesville! Made with pineapple juice, lime and green chartreuse, this is a favorite for land-based party animals.

Check out this recipe

Orange Glazed Chicken Wings – House of Nash Eats

These sweet, sticky and citrusy Orange Chicken Wings are perfect for serving up during the game. Don't forget the wet wipes!

Check out this recipe

Orange Glazed Chicken Wings - House of Nash Eats

Bacon Cheese Fries Recipe with Ranch – The Cookie Rookie

These Bacon Cheese Fries with Ranch remind me of the Swamp Fries at the old school Swamp Restaurant! Cheesy, bacon-y and loaded with flavor… a true game day classic.

Check out this recipe

Bacon Cheese Fries Recipe with Ranch - The Cookie Rookie

Key Lime Pie Truffles – In Fine Taste

A Florida favorite, these tasty truffles make it possible to enjoy the flavors of Key Lime Pie in a tailgate-friendly, poppable form.

Check out this recipe

Alligator Cupcakes – The Inspiration Edit

What's a swamp without some Gators? These adorably appropriate cupcakes will elicit all the “oohs” and “ahhs” and maybe a few chomps.

Check out this recipe

Alligator Cupcakes - The Inspiration Edit

Game Day Essentials

A Florida tailgate isn’t complete without some team gear! Show your Gator spirit with these handpicked orange and blue accessories from my Amazon team shop page!

No matter what team you’re rooting for, you’ll need the fundamentals such as tailgate chairs, tables, grills, speakers and accessories. I’ve compiled some of the best-rated tailgate essentials in my Football Season shop page, so make sure to check those out as well!

More Team Themed Tailgate Recipes

Curious to see how other team tailgates measure up to Florida? Check out my other Tailgate Thursday posts!

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Welcome!

Hi, I’m Dianna! I share elevated yet easy recipes and effortless entertaining ideas that help you cook with confidence and host with joy. Around here, fresh ingredients, thoughtful details, and warm hospitality make every meal feel special. I’m so glad you’re here!

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