After weeks of voting, thousands of passionate fans, and a bracket filled with regional pride, the Great American Tailgate challenge has reached its final chapter — and America has officially crowned Green
Bay bratwurst as the nation’s favorite tailgating dish.
The contest, created by USA TODAY and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, invited fans across the country to celebrate the foods that define game‑day culture in all 32 NFL cities. From the opening round to the championship matchup, the bracket delivered spirited competition, surprising upsets, and a showcase of the traditions that make tailgating one of the most beloved rituals in sports.
The celebration continues this week in Canton, Ohio, as fans flock to the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremonies and the five-day festival surrounding the event, including USA TODAY's Great American Tailgate.
The Final Four brought together four iconic dishes: Eastern Carolina pulled pork, Green Bay bratwurst, New York sausage and peppers, and Philadelphia cheesesteaks. Each advanced through tough regional battles, earning their place in Canton’s spotlight as the Hall of Fame hosts its annual tailgate festival.
In the championship round, Green Bay bratwurst surged ahead with a decisive win over Philadelphia cheesesteaks, securing its place atop the bracket. Brats have long been synonymous with Packers culture — sizzling on grills outside Lambeau Field, shared among generations of fans, and representing the heart of Wisconsin’s game‑day identity. That tradition carried through every round of voting, culminating in a national title that reflects both regional pride and widespread admiration.
The promotion also awarded one lucky participant a $1,000 Pro Football Hall of Fame merchandise gift card.
This year’s winner, Kelly Kreuger, embodies the spirit of the contest. “As a die‑hard Cheesehead I enjoy brats and cheese curds of course,” she said. “Side dishes can be made ahead like pasta salad, potato salad. Beer dip, Wisconsin sushi, cheese and sausage trays are all great snacks to have as well. Beer, Bloody Marys and Old Fashioneds are drinks of choice at a Wisconsin tailgate.”
When asked what she might spend her prize on, she added, “I’m sure it would be Packer related in some way. GO PACK GO.”
As fans gather in Canton for the Hall of Fame’s tailgate festival, with live cooking demos, regional food showcases, and interactive fan experiences, the bracket’s conclusion adds an extra layer of celebration. Green Bay bratwurst now stands as America’s champion, securing its rightful place in tailgating history.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Packers fans notch first win of NFL season as brats take tailgate title
