Gameday Cocktails: A Celebration of Tradition, History, and Personal Stories - With Rob Floyd
It’s time to celebrate gameday with a cocktail, a bit of history, and a touch of personal storytelling. I'll show you a way to make one of my favorite cocktails to enjoy while watching the game, and maybe even stretch the celebration into a full weekend of fun. Remember, gameday isn’t just about the game itself—it’s about gathering with friends, family, and anyone who’s made a special impact in your life. So, let’s make the most of it!
A Look Back
Before diving into gameday cocktails, I always like to reflect on how we got here. Understanding the traditions of gameday helps us appreciate the event even more.
Gameday has always been about more than just the game. It’s a tradition rooted in camaraderie, competition, and community. Over the years, what started as a simple gathering to watch a football game has evolved into a full-blown celebration, complete with food, drinks, and a whole lot of fun. The tradition of gameday cocktails likely began as a way to elevate the experience—adding a touch of sophistication and a way to toast to the team’s victory.
A Little About Me
I enjoy sharing a bit of my own story when it comes to gameday, especially when it involves a cocktail and some good company. Growing up, our gameday gatherings were as much about the people as they were about the game. My dad, a huge fan of both football and a well-made drink, always made sure that the cocktails were just as important as the game itself.
He taught me the art of crafting the perfect gameday cocktail, starting with his favorite—a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, featuring fresh ginger, a good dose of vodka, and a squeeze of lime. It was the first cocktail I ever made, and although I didn’t appreciate the taste back then, I’ve come to love it now.
Gameday Gathering
Fast forward to gameday. We’ve finished our pre-game snacks, the TV is tuned to the big game, and it’s time for cocktails. As the game gets underway, my family and friends gather around with our favorite drinks in hand. For me, it’s not just about enjoying a good cocktail—it’s about recreating the moments I shared with my dad, passing down those traditions, and creating new memories.
Just like how my dad would sit back with his favorite drink, I do the same now, sharing the experience with those around me. There’s a special thrill in getting the cocktail just right, knowing that it’s part of a tradition that started long before today’s game.
Our Memories
The memories of gameday live with me every time I mix a cocktail. I think back to those moments with my dad, and how much he loved not just the game, but the experience of watching it with the people he cared about. Even though he’s no longer here, his influence remains strong—every gameday, every cocktail, is a way of keeping his spirit alive.
Now that I have my own family, I make sure they know what gameday means to me. We gather around the TV, I mix up a batch of cocktails, and we settle in to enjoy the game. It’s not just about football; it’s about continuing the traditions that my dad passed down to me, and making sure they live on with the next generation.
Let’s Celebrate
Gameday is about more than just the game—it’s about the people, the traditions, and the memories we create. As we raise our glasses to toast the team, let’s also toast to each other and to the traditions that bring us together. So, let’s celebrate gameday with a cocktail in hand and a smile on our faces, knowing that we’re creating moments that will last long after the final whistle. Cheers!