When Luke Lorick first began reviewing tailgating gear over a decade ago, he never intended to launch a national movement. Yet thirteen years later, his brand Tailgating Challenge has grown from a personal pastime into a widely followed platform that commands over 300,000 fans, has founded three nationally recognized celebration days, and has become a go-to resource for tailgating and homegating culture in the United States.
Lorick, now President of Tailgating Challenge, has created more than a brand—he has cultivated a lifestyle. What began as an exploration into tailgate gear has since evolved into a multifaceted enterprise that combines product testing, content creation, and public engagement. “Tailgating isn’t just about sports,” Lorick explains. “It’s about community, tradition, and celebrating together—whether that’s in a stadium parking lot or your own backyard.”
In recognition of the broader cultural significance of pre-game festivities, Lorick launched National Tailgating Day in 2016. Now entering its 10th annual celebration on September 6, 2025, the event has become a calendar staple for fans and brands alike. Its success led to the creation of National Yard Games Day and National Homegating Day, both aimed at extending the spirit of tailgating beyond traditional boundaries.
Unlike many content creators who focus solely on exposure, Lorick built Tailgating Challenge on interaction and integrity. He has personally tested over 800 products and consistently shares those insights with his audience. Weekly giveaways further blur the line between influencer and fan, creating a participatory environment rather than a passive feed. His published article, “Couples That Tailgate Together Stay Together,” adds a dimension of research to his passion, while his cameo in the Barbie film and multiple world records in cornhole offer cultural touchpoints that extend Tailgating Challenge’s influence beyond niche sports.
Despite these milestones, Lorick maintains a grounded approach. The brand’s social reach, while significant, serves a broader mission: to celebrate and elevate the tailgating experience. Tailgating Challenge’s success lies not just in numbers but in impact, helping redefine what tailgating looks like in the digital age.
This year’s 10th annual National Tailgating Day marks a turning point—not just for the event, but for the man behind it. As Lorick prepares for the celebration on September 6, 2025, he remains focused on community, authenticity, and the gear that brings it all together. The journey from backyard reviews to national recognition illustrates what happens when entrepreneurial spirit meets cultural insight.
More information about Tailgating Challenge, including gear reviews, celebrations, and social links, can be found on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X, and tailgating-challenge.com.
