A short walk from Raymond James Stadium, beneath the Florida sun and the shadow of palm trees, there’s a place where Buccaneers football comes alive hours before the opening kickoff. Nestled on a private grassy lot at 4005 N Himes Avenue, far removed from the asphalt sprawl of most stadium parking lots, a pirate flag waves, the smell of smoked meat drifts through the air, and the sound of laughter and live music signals that you’ve arrived at WhatTheBuc—the largest and longest-running tailgate in Tampa Bay Buccaneers history.

Started during one of the team’s darker eras, when wins were few and hope was even scarcer, WhatTheBuc was born not from dominance on the field but from devotion off of it. Sixteen seasons ago, a handful of diehard fans from a fledgling podcast banded together with a grill, a cooler, and an undying love for the game. “We were in the middle of what would become our second longest losing streak,” says Cheryl “Spent” Stewart, one of the founding members. “Other tailgates packed up and quit. We took in the strays.”

What began as a modest gathering of fanatics quickly grew into a full-blown institution. Despite—or perhaps because of—the team’s struggles, the WhatTheBuc tailgate became a sanctuary. A place where fans of all stripes, even opposing teams, were welcomed with open arms, full plates, and a cold drink. Each week, hundreds flock to the tree-lined haven just behind One Buc Place to experience a unique blend of party, purpose, and pirate pride. There’s a live DJ spinning music, tailgate games like cornhole in full swing, and of course, a pirate ship. Kids dart between coolers and tents, while adults mingle over pulled pork sandwiches, brisket, and “loaded” hot dogs—prepared by local favorite Wicked Oak BBQ, who now handle the cooking for the ever-growing crowd.

But WhatTheBuc isn’t just about food and fun. It’s about community. After a few accidental weeks of turning a profit, the crew decided to give the extra funds to charity. That impulse has grown into the WhatTheBuc Really Matters Foundation, a Florida-based nonprofit that has donated nearly half a million dollars to local causes—primarily those benefiting underserved children. From peanut butter drives for food pantries to pillows for domestic violence shelters, every game day carries with it a spirit of giving that stretches far beyond football. “Touching a toy that will be in the arms of a child in days is powerful,” Cheryl says. “It means something. We’re not just wearing ribbons.”

The vibe at WhatTheBuc is electric but grounded in a philosophy that keeps things lighthearted and respectful: “Don’t Be an Ass.” Simple, direct, and remarkably effective. Whether you're a fan of the home team or the visitor, the rule applies to all—don’t pile your plate sky-high, don’t get sloppy drunk, and don’t talk trash in front of kids. “It came from people being asses,” Cheryl laughs. “We just want everyone to have fun, be cool, and feel like they belong.”

On game day, that spirit shines. The lot opens four hours before kickoff, and the party doesn’t stop until 45 minutes before game time. There’s shade, seating, real bathrooms (yes, four of them), free Wi-Fi, and more Buccaneers spirit than you’ll find anywhere else in Tampa. It’s a gathering that feels more like a FANmily reunion—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth. Fans from over 20 countries have attended, and it's not uncommon to spot friends and family members of Bucs players mingling with the crowd, snapping pictures with costumed super fans, and raising a toast to another Sunday in paradise.

As Cheryl puts it, “Tailgating is only as good as those participating.” And participate they do. Week after week, win or lose, rain or shine, this crew shows up and shows out. They’ve weathered losing streaks, stadium policy changes, and even a pandemic, but never missed a beat. With Tom Brady's arrival, the spotlight on Tampa brightened—but WhatTheBuc had already been there, carrying the flag and feeding the faithful through the lean years.

WhatTheBuc tailgates with a purpose. They’ve proven that fandom can be more than just noise in the stands—it can be a force for good. And while the food and drink might get you in the door, it’s the camaraderie, generosity, and passion that keeps people coming back. So whether you’re a Tampa native, a visiting fan, or just curious what the buzz is all about, pull on your jersey, grab your sunscreen, and make your way to the lot behind One Buc Place. The kegs will be iced, the music will be thumping, and the WhatTheBuc crew will be waiting to welcome you home.