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Make A Splash With Dolphins Tailgating

Although there is no cool indication of the fall season approaching, football time is definitely upon us. There is no better way to ease into the season than with some classic tailgating. However, tailgating can quickly go awry if not prepared for appropriately. Don't get left in the mud. Ensure your pre-game fun is done right.

Miami is still hot, hot, hot. Escape the parking-lot heat by packing a few essential tailgating cool-off components:

  • Ice – Although this seems like a no-brainer, ice runs out more quickly than a player trying to stop the clock. Pack an extra cooler of only ice to ensure your drinks remain refreshing throughout the tailgate.
  • Koozies – As you all know, beer is a typical beverage consumed during tailgating. Keep your hands warm and your beer cold with a koozie. These are the ultimate beer uniforms and you wouldn't want to be caught with your tailgate team not suited up properly.
  • Water – Alternate sipping your alcoholic beverage with water throughout the tailgate. This will keep you hydrated, cool and refreshed. Also, you'll be happy later when most others are feeling the affects of drinking in the heat kick in.
  • Team Umbrella/Tent – If you don't have one already, go out and buy a Dolphins team umbrella or tent. Umbrellas can easily be set up behind a chair and tents can be set up behind your tailgating parking spot. Both will provide much-needed shade and prevent painful sunburn.
  • Refreshing Refreshments – Although grilling is a standard tailgating activity, grills bring with them heat and hot food to boot. Start the warmer, early-season games off with some lighter fare. Veggies and fruits with dip are a great warm-weather snack. If looking to add some protein into the mix, try preparing a cool chicken salad or sandwiches that can be kept cold until ready to serve.
  • Dolphins Garb – Although you might really want to wear that newly purchased jersey, these can sometimes be rather warm. They are not incredibly breathable and tend to weigh down the wearer. For those warmer games, wear something a bit more comfortable. So long as you stick to the blue, white and orange theme, people will know which team you're rooting for.
  • Wet Towels – Sweating is inevitable. Even shaded areas will remain warm. Pack a couple of small towels that you can use throughout the tailgate to stay cool. Wet the towels, ring out and dab the sweat away when necessary.
  • Proper Headwear – Although most ladies feel that they photograph better with their hair down, this cute look can turn into a sweaty mess very quickly. Tie your hair back into a ponytail to keep it off your neck and back. Also, whether male or female, hats provide great shade for the face. Don your favorite Dolphins cap and look sporty while staying cool.

Okay, now that you have the checklist covered, pack up the car and head out to your Dolphins tailgate. Miamians will be preparing for the game like a true veteran crowd with all of these stay-cool tips.

Emily Lucia is a freelance writer covering all things Miami. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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