The planning for a Super Bowl party has officially commenced as the biggest sporting event of the season is just weeks away. Hosting a Super Bowl party can go one of two ways; smooth with tons of sporty-like decorations, finger lickin’ foods, and fun banter with friends and family, or it can go the complete opposite. While there can be a lot of pressure on the host to successfully accomplishment a party, it’s not the end of the world. To calm your nerves, you need a Super Bowl party checklist. This will allow you to check off party essentials one by one, allowing you to stay cool, calm, and collected while party planning. If you’re going out on a limb and have decided to be the host for this year’s big game, then you’re in the right place.
With various types of foods (and booze) to choose from, must-have sporty decor pieces, and tips to make sure your party runs smoothly, H&T has curated a list of everything you need to be stamped the MVP host. Take a look below at the Super Bowl party checklist you didn’t know you needed to score big on your guests.
What’s on the Menu?
Let’s start easy. One of the main questions you’ll probably get leading up to the party is, “What kind of food will you have?” Your immediate reaction should be listing off different types of food they can expect. If you’re a little lost on where to start for your food menu, we got you. Of course, you don’t need all the items listed, but a variety of food is always appreciated by your guests.
Food
The main star of the show for any party is the food. You want to satisfy everyone and their picky (or not-so-picky) taste buds by providing variety. Include both finger foods and snacks. Serving a mix of items is key. From wings, two-topping pizzas, and cheeseburger sliders to chips and dip, meatballs, and fruit, each guest will be well pleased with a plate full. Don’t forget to consider your healthy or vegan friends when creating your menu.
Beverages (Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic)
The typical beverage choice for game days is beer, soda, or a tasty co*cktail. Beer, being the game day favorite, is what most people grab from the cooler. That said, stock up on beer and other cooler drinks, especially for those coming off of “Dry January.” Plan for 2 drinks per person within the first hour or so. Additionally, don’t neglect your non-drinkers. Add fruity soda, or sparkling water, or play your hand in creating a party mocktail.
Ice
Drinks will be flowing. Therefore, having plenty of ice will save you in the end. Get more than you think you’ll need. Keep in mind ice is being used for drinks and to keep drinks cool.
Party Essentials
Now that you have an idea of your food menu, there’s more to do. There are must-have elements that make a party…well, a party. So, it’s important you make a good first impression. From decorations to extra seating, these essentials will be the next best element at your party.
Decorations
When you think about decor for a sports event, it has to be just that. Try not to include decor pieces that don’t make sense. Consider inflatable mini footballs, football balloons, or confetti. Show your excitement through your serving ware such as napkins and utensils. You can also go big with banners and party streamers to really catch your guests’ attention. Leave the color scheme to the teams on the field. Order your decor in advance to save time on the day of.
Other Necessities
Make sure you have coolers or tubs to keep your drinks cool, plenty of napkins to wipe messy hands, plates, and bowls to eat on, and an area for guests to sit and enjoy the game. Extra seating will make or break your friends’ experience watching the game. If need be, remove your coffee table to allow more living room floor space in front of your television. Ask friends to bring over extra chairs if you run out. Grab extra napkins, plates, and cutlery for those who can’t resist the wings. Instead of risking your fine china, invest in sturdy paper plates.
Follow this checklist for an unforgettable Super Bowl party for you and your company.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an enthusiastic party planner and Super Bowl aficionado, I am here to offer my expertise and knowledge to help you host the ultimate Super Bowl party. With years of experience in organizing successful events and a deep understanding of the elements that make a party memorable, I can guide you through the planning process with confidence.
When it comes to hosting a Super Bowl party, there are two possible outcomes: a smooth and enjoyable experience filled with sporty decorations, delicious finger foods, and lively conversations, or a chaotic and disorganized affair. However, with the right preparation and a Super Bowl party checklist, you can ensure that your party falls into the former category.
To alleviate any nerves you may have as the host, I recommend creating a Super Bowl party checklist. This checklist will allow you to systematically tick off all the party essentials, ensuring that you remain cool, calm, and collected throughout the planning process. Fortunately, you have come to the right place for guidance.
Let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article and provide valuable information related to each one.
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Food: The main star of any party is undoubtedly the food. To satisfy the diverse taste buds of your guests, it is essential to provide a variety of options. Consider including finger foods like wings, two-topping pizzas, and cheeseburger sliders, as well as snacks like chips and dip, meatballs, and a fruit platter. It is also important to accommodate the dietary preferences of your guests, so don't forget to include options for your healthy or vegan friends.
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Beverages: When it comes to game day beverages, beer, soda, and tasty co*cktails are popular choices. Stock up on beer and other cooler drinks, especially considering those who may have just completed "Dry January." Plan for approximately two drinks per person within the first hour or so. Additionally, don't forget about your non-drinking guests. Offer fruity soda, sparkling water, or create a special party mocktail to cater to their preferences.
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Ice: With drinks flowing throughout the party, having an ample supply of ice is crucial. It is always better to have more ice than you think you'll need. Remember that ice is not only for drinks but also for keeping them cool throughout the event.
Moving on to the party essentials mentioned in the article:
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Decorations: When it comes to sports event decor, it is important to choose pieces that are relevant and in line with the theme. Consider inflatable mini footballs, football balloons, or confetti to add a touch of excitement. You can also showcase your enthusiasm through your choice of serving ware, such as napkins and utensils. Banners and party streamers can be used to catch your guests' attention. Leave the color scheme to the teams on the field and order your decorations in advance to save time on the day of the party.
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Other Necessities: In addition to decorations, there are other must-have elements that contribute to the overall party experience. Make sure you have coolers or tubs to keep your drinks cool, plenty of napkins for messy hands, plates and bowls for serving food, and an area for guests to sit and enjoy the game. Extra seating is crucial to ensure your friends have a comfortable experience while watching the game. If necessary, remove your coffee table to create more living room floor space in front of the television. You can also ask your friends to bring over extra chairs if you run out. It's always a good idea to have extra napkins, plates, and cutlery on hand for those who can't resist the wings. Consider investing in sturdy paper plates to avoid any mishaps with your fine china.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that your Super Bowl party is an unforgettable event for you and your guests. From delectable food options to vibrant decorations and essential party elements, you will be well-prepared to host an MVP-worthy gathering. Enjoy the game and the festivities!
