Football fans are out in full force. Every weekend we see die-hard fans proudly displaying their colors, donning face paint, and practicing a war cry in support of their favorite teams. True NFL fans will arrive at football stadiums hours in advance of a game, ready to eat, drink, and party in an effort to rally together the game even beings. So where are some of the most entertaining places to tailgate before a NFL football game?

9. Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum – Oakland, California

Oakland Raider fans have been described as barbarians – 21^st century barbarians covered in face paint, black and silver apparel, and a whole lot of excitement. Tailgating here is sort of like going to a Halloween party – only a lot more fun. You’ll have as much fun people watching as you will have watching the game.

8. Ralph Wilson Stadium – Buffalo, New York

The parking lots at the Ralph Wilson Stadium in Buffalo, New York, home of the Buffalo Bills, open a full 5 hours before kickoff on game day. The coolest part about this particular stadium is the way in which the lots are set up – there are actually specific areas for different types of tailgaters. Cars, limousines, buses, and RV’s all have their own sections,

7. INVESCO Field – Denver, Colorado

The folks out in Denver know how to have fun and fans do their best to step it up a notch at every home game. The Denver Stampede drum line attends most tailgating events and the stadium has a program for the “Most Valuable Tailgater.” A winner is chosen during each home game and for the following game will receive access to the MVT pad, free tickets to the game, free parking passes, and a catered party.

6. Lambeau Field – Green Bay, Wisconsin

Tailgating parties in Green Bay aren’t limited to the areas around the stadium alone. The parking lots themselves have ample space but a lot of it is set aside for season ticket holders. Look around the other lots, and deep into any field within walking distance of the stadium, and you’re bound to find a party. Bring along a 6-pack of a locally brewed beer and they may even share some bratwurst with you. Don’t forget to dress in green and gold.

5. Gillette Stadium – Foxboro, Massachusetts

The tailgating scene around Gillette Stadium is a bit different than those you’ll find in other areas of the country. Instead of traditional wings, ribs, and burgers you’ll find a wide variety of seafood – striped bass, lobster, and clams included. The parking lots will be busy with eating fans before and after the game but if the Patriots are doing well you may just roll up on an empty lot because everyone will be inside.

4. Reliant Stadium – Houston, Texas

Tailgating around Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas is not only fun but is encouraged by team management. Here you’ll find a group of excited fans spread out as far as the eye can see. The Reliant Astrodome, within walking distance, also provides additional parking for large vehicles and groups to set up their tailgating parties. Visit Reliant for some of the best steaks, briskets, and ribs you’ve ever had before a NFL game.

3. Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City, Kansas

The parking lot outside of Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Chiefs, turns into a barbeque pit at least 8 times each year during the team’s home games. Fans roll out smokers, grills, and beverages in order to cheer on their favorite players. If you nice, they may even share – as long as you aren’t wearing the opposing team’s colors, that is!

2. Lincoln Financial Field – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Despite several disappointing seasons, Eagles fans die hard, almost making us question how far fans should go to support a team. Regardless, these fans are willing to stick by their team and in the process will pull out some of the best pizzas, cheese steaks, pretzels, kielbasa, and other incredible Philadelphia-area specialties. These fans party hard both before and after a game.

1. Land Shark Stadium – Miami, Florida

There’s a huge blend of fun and excitement at Land Shark Stadium in Miami Florida. No matter where you turn you’re bound to see a die-hard NFL fan but because they’ve all migrated from different parts of the country they’re fans of not only Miami but of their own home teams. In the stadium, allegiance goes towards Miami. In the parking lots you’re bound to see them watching other games on television as well. Oh – and the parking lot is the third largest in the NFL – perfect for tailgating parties of all sizes!

Grab your NFL tickets, pack a cooler and a small grill, throw a couple of lounge chairs in the car, and head towards the nearest stadium. The fun and excitement outside the stadium before the game is almost as entertaining as what will go on inside!