SAYLOR3D

Colts vs. Ravens Tailgate Party with Indianapolis Fans

2010/01/19

The smell of wood smoke and charcoal lighter fluid wafted through the air at the corner of South and Delaware streets in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana on Saturday night. A delightful aroma of burgers, hot dogs, brats & shish kabobs rose up from the numerous grills.

At 4:00 PM, in a swarm of blue Colts jerseys, tail gate parties were in full swing. Even with most lots charging a parking fee of $15.00, empty spaces were becoming scarce. A place to park on the street was an even rarer sight. Colts fans were gathered here in large numbers. From late model two seater cars to large RVs and buses, they had converged to party and watch the Colts in this first playoff game in their endeavor to have another Super Bowl win.

The weather was warm for the middle of January in Indiana. Tents and portable shelters provided comfort from the elements for those who were not well dressed for the outdoors. Stacks of firewood and portable fire pits were creating a cozy atmosphere in scattered spots.

Generators, computers, TV screens and portable satellite dishes made sure that any pre-game coverage would not be missed. Some fans were very comfortable indeed sitting on a lawn chair in front of a television receiver while covered with a blanket. Being positioned near the grill and beer cooler was probably no accident. A group of young men were taking turns passing and catching a football. Corn bags were tossed at scoring ramps. Eating, drinking and loud conversation were the norm. Music was heard from those with enough electronic gear to host a small rock concert.

At 8:30 PM it was mostly quite. The fans were now at Lucas Oil Stadium rooting for their team. While the lots were still full of vehicles, gone were most of the make shift shelters and personal facilities enclosures. Grills were now stowed in the back of trucks along with lawn chairs and coolers. Small piles of beer cans could be seen littering the lot here and there.

But wait, not all were at the game! Ahead was a large tent with fans watching a TV screen. With drinks in hand, others mingled outside the tent near the fire pit and the grill. The party was still alive and well. Although subdued at this stage, one can imagine the excitement later in the evening when the Colts beat the Ravens with a score of 20 to 3!

Colts fans tailgate parties View this image in 3d: Parallel or Crosseyed