Real Talk: Is Pregame Actually Better Than the Game?

Let’s be honest — by the time you’ve wrangled the kids, found everyone’s shoes, and remembered snacks for the car, you’re basically ready for a nap before the game even starts. So when we tell you that most people agree pregaming beats the actual game, we’re not surprised even a little.

Here’s the deal: a solid 61% of people say the pregame is better than the game itself. And once you think about it, it makes total sense — it’s more relaxed, the food’s easier to get to, and nobody’s fighting a stadium bathroom line holding a nacho tray. 🙌

Wait, What’s a “Homegate”?

Okay, so here’s the plot twist. A recent survey from Talker Research polled 5,000 sports fans, and Americans are now saying they’d rather “homegate” than tailgate.

A homegate is basically everything you love about a tailgate — minus the parking lot and plus the air conditioning. Same energy, same snacks, way comfier couch situation.

For a busy mom, this checks out immediately. No hauling coolers across a stadium parking lot. No sunscreen negotiations. Just your living room, your people, and the game on in the background while the kids run wild in the backyard.

What the “Perfect” Homegate Actually Looks Like

According to the survey, there’s basically a formula for the ideal pre-game hangout:

• Starts about 2.5 hours before kickoff (plenty of time to actually enjoy it)
• 11 people — your crew, basically
• 6 different foods on the spread
• 6 different drinks to choose from

So if you’re already someone who goes a little overboard on the snack table, congrats — you were homegating before it was cool.

So… Tailgate or Homegate?

We want to know where you land. Are you Team Parking-Lot-Grill-Master, or Team Comfy-Couch-Six-Snacks?

👉 Would You Rather Tailgate or “Homegate”?