Footballs were tossed, cocktails were consumed, and Dallas' biggest sports fans partied overtime at CultureMap's newest signature event, The Tailgate.

Held both indoors and out at The Empire Room on October 13, the celebration of all things sports attracted a crowd ready to have some game day fun.

And they certainly didn't go hungry. Past Tastemaker Awards winners and nominees brought snacks galore, from sliders to pizza to wings and more.

Guests could vote for their favorite munchies via QR code, leading to One 90 Smoked Meats taking home the trophy for their smoked pork belly. TLC Vegan Kitchen was also popular for its Better Balance chicken arrabbiata. Drool over a full list of the snacks here.

Those looking to scoop up ideas for their next watch party could sample catering from Whole Foods Market, then walk away with a stadium-approved clear backpack filled with snacks, samples, and coupons for future purchases.

No one's cup ran dry, thanks to bars stocked with Deep Ellum Brewing Co. beers, Austin Cocktails, and specialty drinks featuring Dripping Springs Vodka and 1800 Tequila.

In between bites and sips, guests could watch Thursday Night Football while browsing a silent auction stuffed with valuable sports memorabilia, with a portion of proceeds benefitting our nonprofit partners. The first bidder for each item scored a special reward: a glittering replica of a championship ring (which we can confirm were appropriately heavy).

Attendees could also learn more about and donate to each of the event's nonprofit partners. There representing The Sandlot were Rangers pitcher Taylor Hearn and former MLB pitcher-turned-sports broadcaster Mike Bacsik.

Former Dallas Cowboys player Tyler Patmon is the founder of Camp Exposure, and he was joined by Cowboys mascot — and keen yard games challenger — Rowdy.

Former NFL player Spencer Drango was also ready to take on anyone who wanted to test their skills, drawing crowds to the Merging Vets & Players tent. Former Cowbows defensive tackle Russell Maryland also made an appearance.

Spotted among the sea of jerseys were Larry McFarlin, Laura George, Elizabeth Morrow, Evelyn Adgate, Denver Morris, Claire Richardson, Amanda Valdez, Jeff Florey, Brandon Beville, Nick Schenkel, Monica Sales, Dalton Stegich, Kevin Lamel, Arun Lammata, Beau Blankenship, Stephanie Craig, Crystal Medina, Lula Said, Irene Alexander, Megan Sikes, Lula Said, Gosai Busoui, Alyssa and Patrick Donlan, Stephanie Ceniza, Natalie Mayoral, Skylar Cheff, and Kat Tabora.

The Tailgate is also happening in Houston on October 27 and Austin on November 3 — we hope to see you there!

  

Photo by Ashley Gongora

Sports fans got their fill at The Tailgate.