Tips on hosting the ultimate game day party

Do you enjoy game day for the sport or the food? Either way I have you covered.

We have all tackled the game day wings, sliders and potato skins, right? Let’s change things up a little bit!

Gather some family and friends because it’s time tor the Super Bowl. Whether you are hosting a pot luck or supplying all of the food, I have some ideas for you.

It’s crunch time

Let’s talk food. Yes I chose sandwiches, but not just any sandwiches. Cold cut with mozzarella and cucumber, turkey and cranberry Swiss cheese and tomato, prosciutto and mozzarella with balsamic.

Doesn’t everyone love a Charcuterie board? I added all cured meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, grapes and some chocolate. Finger food is great. I always add in some toothpicks so you can just grab and go.

You can also make up individual charcuterie cups. This way you don’t have to miss a beat of the game with your food at your fingertips.

For those with a sweet tooth, how about some salted caramel chocolate chip cookies? They are incredibly good, especially when your team is losing.

Game day drinks

You will always need a cold one on hand for the entire length of game. Be sure to have alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages available for guests. You may think you can’t go wrong with beer, but you can. Everyone has their preference. While you can have your own selection for guests, it’s also a good alternative to have everyone BYOB (bring your own beverage).

Kick it up a notch and have a drink buffet. Guests can create their own specialty drink. How about a spicy Bloody Mary with celery and bourbon maple bacon?

With the weather colder in New England, you can offer hot beverages such a coffee, tea and hot cocoa. Spiked cider is also a great alternative as well.

Don’t forget the kids

The host is in charge and must accommodate all of the guests. We do not need the kids changing the channel to watch Thomas the train, so we need them entertained. Crafts are always fun. Depending on the space you have inside, a little times bounce house provides hours of fun.

Prep your Entertainment

Have you verified all your electronics are properly working? Can everyone see the screen from the seating arrangements? My best advice is if you have a television on the smaller side, is to rent a screen and projector. It will definitely make the viewing a lot better.

Set the table

Instead of an ordinary tablecloth, use Kraft paper. You can use a white chalk marker to add lines similar to a football field. This will also protect your table from unwanted spills. When the party is over, clean up is easy and you can just throw the paper away.

I wish you and your team the best of luck. Whatever the outcome, I hope you enjoy this time with good food and friends.

Amanda Piscitelli is a mom of three from Wallingford, a business owner and blogger of Livingwithamanda.com where she talks about motherhood, lifestyle and home decor. Instagram.com/livingwithamanda