When autumn rolls into Indiana, two things are guaranteed: cooler weather and the return of Indiana football. Whether you’re cheering on the Indianapolis Colts, your favorite Big Ten college team, or Friday night lights at a local high school, football weekends here are more than just about the game — they’re about community, tradition, and of course, the tailgate.

At Payless Liquor Stores, we know that no tailgate is complete without the right lineup of drinks. From beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts, everyone deserves a winning selection for their game day cooler. Here’s how to tailgate like a pro in Indiana and make your football weekends memorable.

The Classic: Beer for Every Fan

Beer and football are inseparable. In Indiana, the craft beer scene is thriving, and incorporating local brews into your tailgate is a great way to show state pride. Some local favorites worth adding to your lineup include:

• Sun King Brewing (Indianapolis) – Known for their Sunlight Cream Ale and Wee Mac Scottish Ale, these beers are smooth, approachable, and perfect for an all-day football fest.

• Three Floyds Brewing (Munster) – Bold choices like Zombie Dust IPA add a hoppy punch for fans who love strong flavors.

• Upland Brewing (Bloomington) – Their wheat beers and sours are crowd-pleasers that pair well with classic tailgate foods.

If craft isn’t your crowd’s go-to, stocking up on traditional light beers like Bud Light, Miller Lite, or Coors ensures everyone finds something familiar in the cooler.

Want to explore Indiana’s craft beer scene further? Check out Indiana On Tap for brewery guides and events.

Whiskey Wins the Day

When temperatures dip, few drinks beat the warmth of whiskey. Whether neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, whiskey brings a little sophistication to your football tailgate.

• Bourbon – A natural favorite in the Midwest, bourbon pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a tailgate staple.

• Rye Whiskey – Spicier than bourbon, rye adds character to mixed drinks like a classic Manhattan or a simple whiskey ginger.

• Indiana-Made Spirits – Don’t overlook local distilleries. West Fork Whiskey Co. in Indianapolis offers small-batch bourbons that bring Hoosier craftsmanship to your glass.

For easy sipping at the tailgate, consider pre-batching cocktails. A bourbon lemonade or whiskey punch can be made in advance and transported in a cooler-friendly jug.

Crowd-Pleasing Cocktails

Not everyone is a beer or whiskey fan, and that’s where cocktails score big points. With a little prep, you can whip up tailgate-friendly drinks that please the entire squad.

1. Bloody Marys – Perfect for early games. Garnish with bacon, olives, or even mini sliders for a hearty drink-meets-snack experience.

2. Margaritas – Always a hit. Pre-mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, then add ice when you arrive at the lot.

3. Spiked Cider – A fall classic. Mix apple cider with spiced rum or cinnamon whiskey for a drink that tastes like Indiana autumn in a cup.

Cocktails not only diversify your spread but also make your tailgate stand out from the rest.

Don’t Forget the Non-Alcoholic Options

Tailgating is about inclusion, and not everyone wants to drink alcohol. Keep plenty of bottled water, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic beers or mocktails available. Brands like Heineken 0.0 or Athletic Brewing offer beer-like flavor without the alcohol.

This also helps pace your group throughout the day, especially if you’re starting early and planning for a long game night.

Pairing Drinks with Classic Football Foods

Of course, the best tailgates in Indiana don’t stop at drinks — they’re also about the food. Pairing beverages with snacks elevates the whole experience:

• Burgers and Brats – Pair with lagers or light ales.

• Buffalo Wings – IPAs and wheat beers cut through the spice.

• Chili – Rich stouts or bourbon cocktails balance the bold flavors.

• Tailgate Desserts (cookies, brownies, or sweet corn pudding) – Pair with spiked cider or a dessert wine.

The right combinations make both your drinks and food shine, creating the perfect football weekend vibe.

Pro Tips for Indiana Football Tailgating

1. Pack Smart – Bring plenty of ice, coolers, and reusable cups. Don’t forget bottle openers!

2. Stay Legal & Safe – Always check tailgate policies at stadiums or campuses. Many schools and pro venues have specific rules about open containers.

3. Local Loyalty – When possible, support Indiana brands. Whether it’s a local craft beer or regional whiskey, you’ll impress your guests while keeping it Hoosier-proud.

For detailed guidance on responsible drinking and tailgating safety, you can visit NCAA’s official alcohol guidelines.

Final Whistle

Indiana football weekends are more than just games; they’re rituals of food, fun, and fellowship. By stocking your tailgate with the right mix of beer, whiskey, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, you’ll be the MVP of any parking lot or backyard gathering.

Next time you’re gearing up for a big game, stop by your local Payless Liquor Store. With an unmatched selection of beer, wine, and spirits — including plenty of Indiana-made favorites — we’ve got everything you need to tailgate like a pro.