What started as a wild idea in the parking lot of the old Pontiac Silverdome has grown into one of the most iconic and beloved tailgates in all of professional football. The Tubgaters—founded in 1995 by the late Ron Leonard—revolutionized pre-game partying in Detroit by introducing a full-size hot tub to the tailgate scene. Mounted on a custom trailer featuring bubbling waters dyed Honolulu Blue, the hot tub quickly became a magnet for fans, media, and curious passersby. When Ron passed away in 2002, the tradition was kept alive by his close friends Dave and Denny Arney, with Denny eventually becoming the captain and the heart of the Tubgaters' operation. Through snowstorms, losing seasons, and changing stadiums, the hot tub has remained a warm, welcoming constant in the Motor City.

Each home game, the Tubgaters set up in Detroit’s historic Eastern Market under Shed 2, where the scent of grilled food mingles with the steam rising off their famous tub. Friends and strangers alike gather in lawn chairs and Lions gear, ready to soak, sip, and celebrate. Visitors are often surprised to learn they’re welcome to join in—even if they didn’t bring a bathing suit. The crew keeps clean towels and extra gear on hand, making sure everyone feels part of the tradition. First-time guests are greeted with beers, laughter, and an open invitation to jump in. It’s a mix of Midwestern hospitality and blue-collar creativity that’s come to define this unforgettable gameday experience.

Thanksgiving is the highlight of the Tubgaters' season, when they pull out all the stops for the Lions’ annual holiday game. The hot tub is pre-dyed to a deep, vibrant Honolulu Blue, often by a visiting fan from the opposing team—a small but meaningful gesture of friendly rivalry and shared appreciation for the sport. The parking lot becomes a festival of food, costumes, and camaraderie, with longtime regulars like David Kreis and Mark “Pilgrim” Mullins leading the charge. The latter earned his nickname from years of attending the Thanksgiving tailgate in full Pilgrim costume—initially just to get on TV, but now a cherished tradition in its own right.

The Tubgaters aren’t just a Detroit phenomenon—they’re a recognized stop on the national NFL fan circuit. They’ve taken their tailgate on the road to cities like Green Bay, Tampa, and Indianapolis, towing the hot tub behind them and turning heads wherever they go. They’ve been featured on national television, profiled in Sports Illustrated and ESPN Magazine, and even appeared during coverage of Super Bowl XL in Detroit. But fame was never the goal. For the Tubgaters, it’s always been about bringing people together—sharing laughs, stories, beers, and the kind of memories that stick long after the game ends.

ttending a Tubgaters tailgate means becoming part of a family. Whether you’re a diehard Lions fan or just a curious traveler, you’re greeted with a handshake, handed a drink, and invited to soak in something special. It’s one of those rare gameday traditions where strangers become friends and everyone leaves with a story to tell—and maybe a little water in their boots.