Michigan
Inducted: October 5, 2014
Captains: Vic and Gina Merrill
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Vic and Gina Merrill
The Tailgaters of Detroit’s Eastern Market are led by Motor City tailgating power couple Vic and Gina Merrill. Since 1995, they’ve been the heart and soul of this friends and family tailgate, a Detroit Lions tradition that began under the lights of the old Silverdome and proudly continues just a short walk from Ford Field. Together, Vic and Gina have built more than a tailgate — they’ve built a family. Their warmth and energy set the tone for every gameday, welcoming fans from across the league, serving up incredible food, and making sure every visitor feels like part of the crew. From the first Apple Pie Shot at sunrise, served by Brenda, to a themed feast prepared by Grillmaster Nick, and a heartfelt “Go Lions!” echoing through the lot, Vic and Gina’s leadership embodies what the Tailgating Hall of Fame is all about — Food, Family, Friends, Football, and Fun.
Learn More About Our Tailgate
Vic and Gina Merrill really are the heart of this tailgate! Since 1995, starting at Lightpost J at The Silverdome and migrating to Eastern Market in 2002 when The Lions moved to Ford Field. They began with a Pontiac Grand Prix and eventually upgraded their vehicle to accommodate a growing tailgate. In Eastern Market, they started out in the center of Lot 1 across from Vivio’s. In 2007 Bob & Brenda parked next door. Jen & Chris then joined the Party in 2013. Over the years, countless others have also become family. In 2017, they moved to their current location in Shed 2 at Eastern Market on the corner of Adelaide & Market St.
Vic & Gina bought Season Tickets in 1995 and they are still held by their Daughter & Son-in-Law, Nicole & Nick Bianchi.
No place else feels more like home on Gameday! Walking in feels like joining a party. The Tailgaters strike up a conversation with every single person. Whether lifelong Lions Die Hards or Rival Fans. Regardless of the scoreboard, the atmosphere is always upbeat, authentic, and full of Lions Pride! The Tailgaters are known for their welcoming atmosphere, treating everyone like family regardless of what Jersey they’re wearing.
This tailgate is centered around 5 pillars: Food, Family, Friends, Football, and Fun. Their hospitality is unmatched. The Tailgaters arrive before sunrise for every home game. Gameday starts 1st thing in the morning with an Apple Pie Shot. Whether it’s The Home opener or the Playoffs are around the corner, that moment is always met with a resounding ‘Go Lions!’. This is followed up with a great breakfast as well as a full Gameday feast, many prepared by their Grillmaster Nick. Each tailgate features a different theme; Opening Day Pig Roast, Oktoberfest, Thanksgiving & an Annual Chili Cookoff are just a few. Tailgates also include Beer on tap, Bloody Mary’s & Blue Juice.
Heading to the game? It’s a short walk to Ford Field! They’ll have a hot dog waiting for you when the game is over. Not going to the game? Bring a chair, & stick around and watch on the big screen with The Tailgaters.
So if you're heading to Detroit for a Lions game for the very first time or your fiftieth time, look for The Tailgaters in Shed 2 in Eastern Market. You’ll find Them in full swing, ready to offer a plate, a beer, a story, & a genuine Detroit welcome. You’ll never meet better people in a parking lot!
