All-Church Tailgate
2026
What a great time everyone had at the 2026 All-Church Tailgate on the Sunday before Labor Day.
Be sure and check out our photo gallery and if you have pictures from the event, you can share them there too!
(Event description)
Tailgating Time in Maryville, Tennessee is one of our favorite things as fall approaches. Labor Day Weekend is the "unofficial" end of summer and the start of "fall and football." Now, for many years running, 1st Church gets into the spirit of the season with a super fun way for YOU to spend a Sunday morning.
If you are looking for a church and just not sure about making a visit, this is a great opportunity to meet people (and eat some great food). There's even a special "Welcome Tent" where you can get started at the Tailgate before wandering around and meeting people from different Sunday School classes and ministries.
The All-Church Tailgate, takes the tradition of grilling and eating before a football game and turns it into a full-fledged event for all ages. This all happens outside the church walls, in our parking lot with breakfast tailgating starting at 9:00 am and going until 10:30 when everyone gathers for Worship.
The service under the big tent features special music, the presentation of some special awards, and of course a message crafted for just such an occasion. In 2026, Camp Wesley Woods Director, Garrett Hammonds brings you the inspiring words of the day.
Hope to see you there in 2027 on the Sunday before Labor Day!
How do I participate?
The All-Church Tailgate is for people of all ages. While several Sunday School classes set up tailgating sessions, Rev. Sarah Slack also sets up a "Welcome Tent" where if you aren't part of a group, you have a place to come, hang out, share some delicious dishes and take part in the fun. Each tailgating station is encouraged to bring drinks to share.
While bringing a breakfast dish to share is certainly a part of the fun, you are not obligated to do so. Just come enjoy the bounty of God's gifts along with the fun and fellowship that goes with it.
For the tailgating portion of the morning, you might want to bring your lawn chair. Seating for worship will be provided, but many people opt to sit in their own chairs.
What do I need to bring?
- Tailgating starts at 9:00 am, so if you want to set up a station be there at 8:45 am to set up. Water (in bottles) and a coffee station will be provided, but each group should bring drinks for their station, like coffee and/or juice.
- If you aren't part of a group, you can bring your breakfast dish or treats to the "Welcome Tent" or just come and enjoy the food and company.
- Worship happens at 10:30 am, outside. (There will not be an 8:15 service or a 10:30 Contemporary worship service.)
- If you have kids younger than 3-years-old that need care, the 1st Kids Team will have a tent set up where kids can hang out while guardians spend time with others at the many tailgating or at worship.
- Throughout the event, we encourage you to take (and post) pictures to let everyone share in the fun.
if you're posting on social media be sure and use #1stTailgate or tag Maryville First United Methodist Church in your posts on Facebook or Maryville1stUMC on Instagram.
