Super Bowl 2012 is just around the corner! If you are an avid football fan, you may already be counting down the days to this year’s big game. Regardless of which team you pull for (or if you’ve been nominated to host this year’s party), take these Super Bowl etiquette tips with you. Your party will be the talk of the town!
Tips for Hosting a Super Bowl Party:
1. Plan (and shop) early. By now you’ve selected the date and party theme to allow yourself plenty of time to purchase some great invitations and get them out in the mail. Two weeks ahead of time is a good rule of thumb unless your instincts tell you that you have Super Bowl Party competition.
2. Choose guests who are football fans or will at least enjoy themselves while others are watching the game.
3. Stock up on game day goodies ahead of time. If you are ordering deli trays or special desserts, make sure to order a little extra for unexpected guests. Plan your grocery list carefully and make sure to ask guests if they have any food allergies. Nothing ruins a great party like an unexpected trip to the emergency room!
3. Do a little game day homework. Whether you are an enthusiastic fan or a Super Bowl newcomer you will look and feel more comfortable if you know [removed the word “who”] a few of the key players. Dazzle your friends with a few interesting tidbits about a particular player and watch them marvel at your football knowledge – especially if you don’t know a football from a hula hoop.
4. Encourage your guests to take their hats off for the national anthem. Stop what you are doing to show respect. Mirror the behavior you would like to see from your guests but don’t make them feel uncomfortable if they don’t follow your lead. Most people don’t think about taking their hat off in front of a television but it is a nice gesture if anyone notices.
5. Make plans for halftime. Get your guests energized by offering a halftime snack. Don’t bring it out until mid-game and watch them devour your special treat. Plan a game or activity that is fast-paced and fun in the event the Super Bowl commercials aren’t as thrilling as you would have hoped. Another game idea: have a favorite commercial contest and buy a few inexpensive prizes for those that can reenact one of the “smooth moves” from the commercials or half time presentation.
6. Have a kids room set up for the little ones and hire a babysitter. Offer crafts, kid friendly food and a TV to watch a kid friendly movie.
7. Get guests involved in party favors. Order M&Ms in game day colors for a [removed “make a”] neat take-home treat! Let guests fill them up in party favor bags and send them home with a memento of the day.
8. Provide ample seating and coasters for your tables. As with any party, you’ll want to make sure everyone is comfortable
If you are hosting a party at your apartment:
9. Be considerate of your neighbors. Let them know you will be having a party and give them a timeframe – after the party is over, offer them some left over pizza and dessert. Ask your guests to carpool to ensure there are enough spaces to park. You may also wish to notify the apartment office that you’ll be expecting guests and inquire if there is any additional parking. Even if you don’t live in an apartment complex, you may still want to let your neighbors know you are expecting multiple guests so they can prepare for extra cars in the neighborhood. Put out pylons of where guests should not park. Depending on your party size, you may also want to consider hiring a valet.
10. As an alternative to your apartment, inquire about hosting the party at your neighborhood clubhouse or party room. Using the community barbecue pit is less mess and you will have loads of extra space and probably more fun!
Bonus tips:
– Know when to stop serving alcohol and switch over to coffee or soft drinks. Provide transportation home to those who may have enjoyed one too many of your signature cocktails. “Friends don’t let friends drive drunk.”
Have a wonderful Super Bowl party!
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