But, here&squo;s the inside scoop. If you want to win the Tailgate Contest, decorate and cook (buy, cater, and serve) according to a category: best country tailgate, most unusual tailgate, most elegant tailgate and judges&39; pick tailgate.

I spoke with Lisa Preston Clark the other day (she&squo;s one of the founders and judges of the tailgate contest) and she gave me a little background. Over the years, spectators have put on their thinking caps and come up with some pretty creative tailgating experiences: 1950s Sock Hop Tailgate, Surfer Paradise Tailgate (including surfboards), Bahama Mamma Tailgate, New Orlean&squo;s Gumbo-gate, Cowboy Tailgate, Flamingo Tailgate and Fancy Estate Silver Service Tailgate are a few she could remember.&bsp; Participants weren&squo;t afraid of using props and costumes to complete the effect. &bsp;

As far as tailgate cuisine?&bsp; Hmm&ellip; fried chicken, deviled eggs, pimento cheese, shrimp, crudit´s.&ellip;Bloody Marys and Mint Juleps are always present.

Judging from is from 11-1:30 p.m.