By: Ashley Martens
Are you ready for some football? The big game is right around the corner and if you are hosting a football viewing party with family, friends and neighbors, here are seven tips to help make your game day party a total touchdown.
#1: Create a Checklist
This first tip may sound obvious, but making a list of everything you need to do and shop for in order to prepare for your game day hosting party is critical. Bonus Tip: If you plan on hosting multiple game day viewing parties later this fall, print out a paper copy of your official game day checklist then laminate it and use a dry erase marker to check off every item on your to do list once it’s complete, that way you can reuse your list multiple times for each and every game.
#2: Set Up
When it comes to hosting a game day viewing party, make sure you have enough tables and chairs set up so everyone has a seat to watch the big game. Although some guests may prefer to stand, it’s always nice to have a seat when it comes time to eat all of the delicious football food. Speaking of football food…
#3: Plan a Menu
Game day viewing party menus can range from simple dishes like franks, burgers and sliders to more elaborate dishes like barbecue briskets, bison burgers, grilled chicken, steaks and fried free range turkeys. Some side dishes can include fruit and vegetable platters, chips and dips, pasta salads, baked beans and grilled corn on the cob. Don’t forget dessert! Some football fan favorites include homemade brownies, cookies and cupcakes. Tailor your game day menu to you and your guests’ taste buds, but anything goes when it comes to tailgating. Just remember to practice food safety by keeping raw meats and prepared foods separate. Need some recipe inspiration? Check out this arsenal of delicious recipes.
Every good kabob or charcuterie board needs tasty veggies. Check out Melissa’s Produce to fill out your selections for the big game. They have a Season’s Best Challenge ultimate homegating contest you can enter for a chance to win over $5,000 in prizes.
[box] Tip: When it comes to planning your football menu, consider your guests and their taste preferences. Will there be children present or just adults? Are there any dietary restrictions? These are all questions to keep in mind when planning your game day menu.[/box]
#4: Get the Kids Involved
If your football party guest list includes younger children, make them an integral part of the game day experience. Have them create a family friendly music playlist, let them decorate your living room or wherever the game will be watched and ask them to help create some of the menu items like freshly baked homemade chocolate chip cookies. Yum!
#5: Game Day Gear
Be sure to don your team colors on game day. Order some temporary team tattoos prior to game day to share with your crew. You can even purchase some non toxic face paint to take your team spirit to the next level. Remember to practice good sportsmanship when interacting with fans from opposing teams!
#6: Have Fun
When planning your football viewing party, strive for an event that appeals to the entire group and all ages. Enlist the help of your guests if needed and get everyone involved. At the end of the day, no matter whether your team wins or loses, it’s all about making memories with family, friends and your community so have fun and make it a good time!
#7: Clean Up
When it comes to cleaning up, keep things simple. Clearly label recycling bins so guests know where to place water bottles, cans and glass bottles. Place multiple trash cans around your home or event space so guests are never unsure of where to place used napkins and plates. After guests leave, be sure to do a lap around your home to search for any stains that may have joined the party. The sooner you tackle those the better!
Follow these seven tips for your upcoming game day viewing party and your football Sunday is sure to be a total touchdown for every one!
Meet The Author:
Ashley Martens is a Health and Wellness Writer based in Chicago, IL. With a background in digital marketing coupled with her knowledge of general nutrition and a lifelong passion for all things health, wellness, fitness and nutrition, Ashley offers a healthy alternative to traditional writing. You can learn more about Ashley and her writing over at her blog, Three to Five a Day.
