Blacktop Culinarians Unite!
Since
2006, Hans Steiniger has traveled to major pro sports venues
across the country in an effort to understand how tailgating differs
regionally as one moves from city to city. Throughout this
journey, numerous
connections were made with local tailgating groups eager to share their
experiences and open their grill pits to the many travelers that Quest
for 31. This is their story...
The Tubgaters
The Tubgaters
At A Glance
Home Team: Detroit Lions
Tailgating Since: 1995
Location: Eastern Market
Typical Tailgate Size: 60 tailgaters
Regulars: Denny, Mickey, Jerry, Dave, "The
Great Pimpkin"
Website:
The Tugaters
Signature Drink: "No signatures are required to drink"
Best Local Beer: Atwater Detroit Pale Ale
Tailgate Cruiser: Ford F-150
Awards: "Drinking Beer is its own Reward"
Member Since: October 26, 2012
Member Bio:
The Tubgaters were founded in 1995 by Ron Leonard. At that time, they
took place at the now defunked Pontiac Silverdome. Tragically, Ron passed away and the Tubgate responsibility
was assumed by Dave Arney for several years. It then passed to Denny Arney.
The Tubgaters have been on TV many times. They have also been featured in Sports Illustrated and ESPN magazine.
The Tubgaters were there when Detroit hosted the Superbowl in 2006. Urban legand has it that an unknown fully naked lady stood up in the tub and gave an amazing dance performance. "Wait a minute!" . . . . that wasn't urban legend. It really happened!
Our crown jewel tailgate is the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving game. The water in the tub is always
colored Honolulu Blue and vistors and passerby's are encouraged to join
us for a dip in the Tubgater hot tub if they want. Don't have a suit or a towel? No worries. . . . we always have a few clean bathing suits and towels handy for any 1st timers that want to
try our time honored, Motor City tradition.
Remember, " Tubgating is not just a way of life. . . . It's a way of life, plus beer! "
Goooooo. . . . Lions !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hall of Fame Credentials:
The Tubgaters have captured the imaginations of local Detroit Lions fans
since the days of the Pontiac Silverdome. They've been a fixture
on the Quest for 31 since 2012. Every great tailgate is steeped in
a fine tradition that spans many years and the tubgaters are no
exception. Their mobile hot tub trailer attracts droves of female
fans looking for warmth during these harsh Detroit winters. Motor
City Hot Tub tailgating has never been the same.
