Let’s thank our lucky stars we can still watch football this fall, but nothing compares to the game-day experience. Although there won’t be stadium events and entertainment this year, a Lakewood neighbor can help you organize an at-home tailgate that doesn’t require fighting traffic or paying for parking.
Todd Krumholz founded Legends Tailgates for people who typically host high-end tailgates or suite events for clients and fans during games.
“There are a lot of private tailgates that are ticketed, and alumni players will set up tables and do autographs,” Krumholz said. “Some of them rely on that income. This was created out of the idea to supplement that lost income from events around the game.”
Tailgates can be hosted virtually or in person, depending on group size and the outdoor setup at each home. Temperature checks will be taken upon arrival, and guests must be spaced appropriately. No physical contact is allowed, and guests must wear masks when moving around.
Krumholz, the owner and managing director of JTK Talent, a marketing service that connects companies with professional athletes for endorsements, appearances and speaking engagements, has secured Charles Haley, Jimmy Johnson, Demarcus Ware, Travis Frederick and more as guest speakers. But there’s no limit to who can appear.
“Virtual tailgates can be anywhere, anybody, anything,” Krumholz says. “We just have to line up schedules. In-person is more local to you. I can hunt them down and see if it would be feasible.”
Guests can get autographs, take pictures, listen to play-by-play information and hear stories from the legends’ playing time and careers.
Tailgates aren’t limited to football. They can be organized for the Stars playing in the Stanley Cup, for example.
Chef Kent Rathbun, who has been serving curbside barbecue during the pandemic, will create a custom catering menu for each tailgate. Items can include anything from barbecue chicken and ribs to lobster and mac and cheese.
There are options for all budgets depending on the guest speaker, the format and the headcount for food. Make a reservation at legendstailgates.com.
“It’s a pivot for this year,” Krumholz said. “I think it has staying power. It could continue post-pandemic and transfer into other markets.”
