On fall Sundays in Cleveland, just beyond the roar of Lake Erie and the proud silhouette of Huntington Bank Stadium, there’s a pregame ritual unfolding that’s pure Dawg Pound magic. At the Burke Lakefront Airport lot—just a long toss from the gates—you’ll find a corner of Browns fandom where loyalty, laughter, and creativity come together with purpose. It’s called the North Port Kennel, and for over two decades, it has been a gathering place for Cleveland Browns fans who believe that tailgating should be about more than just food and football. It’s about camaraderie, community, and carrying on traditions that turn ordinary weekends into unforgettable experiences.

From the moment the first cars roll in, usually around 7:30 a.m., the tailgate begins to take shape. Tables unfold, tents rise, coolers are unpacked, and someone’s always stirring a crockpot or firing up a griddle. Themed menus change weekly, keeping things fresh and flavorful—maybe it’s “Deep Fried Week” one Sunday, or “Polish Week” the next. Everything Bacon Week is a fan favorite, naturally, and Citrus Week has a surprise or two that brightens even the grayest Cleveland skies. But regardless of the week’s theme, there’s always something hot and satisfying on the menu, and the folks behind the grills and fryers take real pride in the dishes they serve.

What really sets the North Port Kennel apart is the sense of inclusion and warmth. Newcomers are welcomed as if they’ve always belonged, and regulars gather like family. The setup may not be flashy or designed for the cameras, but it runs like a well-oiled machine. Everyone plays a role—whether hauling gear, bringing side dishes, tending the cook stations, or cleaning up before heading into the stadium. It’s a collaborative rhythm that’s been fine-tuned over years of gamedays, and the result is a tailgate that feels both familiar and fresh every time you visit.

One of the defining moments of any visit to the North Port Kennel happens when the orange cowbell rings out across the lot. That bell isn’t just a sound—it’s a signal. It calls everyone in earshot to join in for a signature round of shots, whether it's a Jaeger Bomb, a sip of Fireball, or something from the legendary “Dawg Bite” lineup. For the younger tailgaters, there are Puppy Bites—playful non-alcoholic alternatives that let everyone be part of the fun. The cowbell brings people together, breaks the ice, and reminds everyone that gameday is meant to be shared.

While food and drink are centerpieces, the spirit of this tailgate extends well beyond the parking lot. Throughout the season—and even into the offseason—the crew behind North Port Kennel is constantly looking for ways to give back. From collecting aluminum tabs for the Ronald McDonald House to raising support for the Lake Humane Society, Toys for Tots, and Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, this is a tailgate that has never lost sight of its community. They carry that same generosity into every weekend, proving that tailgating isn’t just about celebration—it’s also about service.

If you find yourself in Cleveland on a Sunday morning, seeking a place where Browns pride runs deep and the welcome is genuine, the North Port Kennel is worth the visit. It’s not built on spectacle or star power—it’s built on heart, hustle, and a passion for the game. Just listen for the bell, grab a plate, and raise a glass with a crowd that knows what it means to be part of the Dawg Pound. You may arrive a stranger, but you'll leave feeling like part of the pack.