How to Plan a Football Party

Football is one of the greatest gatherers of people. It gives people a chance to relax, spend time with friends and unite to cheer on a favorite team. When you are hosting a football party, your biggest concern should be that everyone has a good time. Whether you are on a budget or new to hosting parties, creating a comfortable setting for your guests is essential. To do this, you do not have to have a big screen plasma TV and a bar.

Things You'll Need

  • TV
  • Finger food
  • Drinks (alcoholic and otherwise)
  • Comfortable seats
  • Decorations (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Create a guest list. Always invite extra people in case some people don't show up. Invite one extra person per four people. You can do this easily by telling people they can bring a friend.

    • 2

      Set a budget. Decide what is most important to you and spend the most on that. For instance, you might decide that a certain type of beer is what you want to spend the most on; spend less on food or decorations.

    • 3

      Decide whether you want to put up some creative, football-themed decorations. Since football parties are so laid-back, it is not essential to decorate, although it may add to the festive atmosphere. It is a good idea to make sure you have plenty of comfortable places to sit.

    • 4

      Know your guests' tastes. There are some picky drinkers and eaters out there, not to mention people with food allergies. You may have a friend that is a vegetarian that is allergic to peanuts and hates mojitos. You don't want to sacrifice your menu for one person and you don't want to ask everyone what they want, so have a few alternative food and drink options. Some safe bets would include bottled water, a vegetable tray and potato chips -- things that most people can drink and eat safely.

    • 5

      Serve finger food. The last thing you want to do during a football game is look down at your plate. Finger food is also much easier to replenish throughout the party; keep the extra food warm in a low-heated oven. Some favorites include buffalo wings, sliders, cocktail wieners, cookies and pretzels.

    • 6

      Have an alternative to alcohol for designated drivers. Lara Shriftman, author of four books including "Party Confidential: New Etiquette for Fabulous Entertaining," suggests serving flavored coffee, cappuccino or espresso at the end of a party.

    • 7

      Plan the time of your party so that guests will arrive before the game begins. This way you can give them some refreshments before they sit down. It is also a good idea to give the guests an idea of when the party will be over so that guests don't leave at odd hours or stay too long.

    • 8

      Plan something for people to do during halftime. You could use the time to catch up with invited friends -- be sure to pay attention to each of your guests. Or you could play a game such as Texas Hold 'em, darts or a football video game.