Watching a football game is even better with a house full of friends. This fall open up your doors and invite your friends and neighbors over on game day. Bring the tailgating party indoors with these helpful ideas.
The Invitations
Set the mood early by incorporating your favorite team’s colors. Or make the invitations look like tickets to a big game. You can even order custom ticket invitations with a personalized photo from party411.com.
The Décor
Footballs and team colors are the obvious choices. You can instantly turn your fall décor into game day décor by adding plaid material in your college team’s colors or full-size footballs in straw baskets or trophy-like urns. You can also customize banners using online templates. Turn simple brown craft paper or a green rug or table runner into a football field with white electrical tape and numbers.
The Game
The game on the TV shouldn’t be the only game at your party. During half time, take the game outside for a friendly game of tag football that everyone can play. It’s also a good idea to give your guests small inflatable footballs to throw at the TV when the game doesn’t go their way. Don’t forget the football clackers, whistles, cowbells and megaphones for when the tide turns and their team is on top.
The Food
Keep it simple. You don’t want to be in the kitchen and miss the action. Focus on finger foods and slider sandwiches that are easy for grazing guests to grab throughout the game. Order sandwiches from a local restaurant and then wrap them in brown paper with string for a custom touch. Chili and wings will always be a hit, but you can mix it up with Beer & Cheese Fondue from bhg.com as well. Give guests brown or white paper bags to fill with their favorite chips, popcorn and nuts while they watch the game.
Start planning your next party now. Football parties don’t need to be formal. A simple, casual plan will ensure that everyone, including you, will have a good time. Above all cheer loudly and have fun.
