Touchdown Vikings! Wait – don’t leave! Even if you’re not a Minnesota Viking’s fan, surely you can still appreciate a great party and cheering for your favorite team on game day.

Why is it fun hosting a game-day party? Because you get to provide the fun of easy, delicious foods and entertainment for your guests!

Whether you’ll entertain the rowdy football crowd or casual observers, here are 5 ways to host a great party on game day:

1. TV. Obviously the most important element in hosting a game-day party. You don’t need to go out and buy a big screen, but make sure your TV is wiped down, and placed in a position where it is visible to everyone.
2. Comfort. When the game is really intense many people will prefer to stand, but some will want to sit. So, have chairs or bar stools available. If you have couches, place random pillows and blankets around for optimal comfort.
3. Music. Commercials and half time can be boring. Have your iPod dock handy as an option to play music, during these times.
4. Decorations. You don’t need to go out and buy too many things, but having a few fun decorations can go a long way. How about some candles in your team colors? Or plates, cups and napkins in those same colors? Perhaps you want to have beads or other dress-up activities to build even more excitement around your team? (This one the kids are sure to love!)
5. Food and Beverages. This is another critical element. Whether you are just having appetizers or more entre-focused foods, you’ll need to have some things on hand. Here are (8) ideas:
   • Crackers or bread with Cheesy Polka-Dot Dip
   • Trail Mix
   • Green Apples and Mini BabyBel White Cheddar Cheese Platter
   • Homemade spritzers: juice or lemonade mixed with a pinch of 7 up or Sprite (White wine addition optional)
   • Veggies (carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, cauliflower) and Hummus
   • Grilled chicken or tofu with a dipping sauce
   • Coffee or Apple Cider (remember, it is fall!)
   • Roasted Garlic Cheesy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes (eat as is or use as a bread topping)

Don’t make pulling off a great party on game day at your house more work or stress than it should be. The reality is that all of these things are very simple. Make a plan a few weeks out, gather the things you’ll need little-by-little and then prepare your food a little ahead of time. Hosting a great party on game day is simple and exciting, and once you do your first for regular game season, I guarantee you’ll be ready to host a great Super Bowl Party!

Have you ever hosted a game-day party? What are some things you do to make it a success? And by the way, which team is your favorite?!

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