How to Host a Family Friendly Football Party
As southerners, you already know we take our football very seriously. Our weekend plans revolve around watching ESPN Gameday and game time for our favorite team. We even avoid attending a function if it interferes. Unless the event will have the game on, we won’t go. A football watch party is a great way to start adding some family fun to your weekends. Family traditions may include outdoor activities, specific food, and lucky shirts. We grew up in a house divided when it came to a favorite team. However, we all agreed on watching the games together. Some fans can be passionate about their favorite team. We encourage keeping the trash talk to a minimum in front of the children. Check out the things we believe help create an excellent family friendly football party.
Keep it simple.
A family friendly football party should be a laid back and relaxed atmosphere, at least until the game is underway. There is no need to go all out, because all eyes will be on the tv come game time. Have guests arrive 30 minutes before game time to ensure everyone is there for kickoff. Decor can be simple or grand. Basic football or team themed food platters, plates, and silverware work nicely to add a little flare. It can even be disposable. Some like to put out flags, banners, or even balloons. However, it does not have to be fancy, just fun!
Wear team gear.
Jerseys, t-shirts, dresses, or sweats with your favorite team is welcomed and encouraged. You could also opt to simply wear your favorite team’s colors. The clothing is part of the decor at a football party. Make sure the outfit is comfortable for the outdoor climate and for participating in party activities. You can find local team apparel at your local retailers if you need something last minute. Accessories count too! Hats, wristbands, pom poms, bows, etc, are all a great way to dress up an outfit.
Serve food and beverages.
Many southerners believe this is the most important aspect of any party. We suggest an abundance of snacks and appetizer foods. Dips and cheese balls are always popular. They can be bought or homemade, but they provide something to snack on throughout game time. Charcuterie boards have become very popular because you can utilize many different types of finger foods. When guests ask what they can bring, which is the polite thing to do in the south, let them know what you need. It could be a side or an appetizer that would go nicely with the main course. The main course is usually a protein of some sort. Grilling is a perfect option if the weather is good, but not necessary. Sub sandwiches, baked wings and pulled pork in a crock pot are just fine too. Be mindful to serve dishes that are temperature appropriate. For example, if it’s 90 degrees outside, chili may not be the best option. Having a separate kid’s table is great if a lot of littles will be there. Let parents know if there will be plenty of kid friendly options.
Feature multiple games.
Most likely there will be fans of several different teams present. You should plan on watching more than one game. Usually there is a big, main event game, which would be your party time. However, sometimes there are several “important” match ups that may overlap. It is ideal to have multiple televisions in one room. However, you could set up televisions in separate rooms or areas of the house. A lot of televisions have the multiview option as well, which is helpful if you have limited space. Another fun idea is to set up a projector outdoors. This allows for more room and a fun viewing area. If you are hosting a lot of the fun outside, have guests bring their tailgate chairs. Having multiple games on simultaneously is definitely a plus, but not a must!
Yard games and/or activities.
A huge aspect of fun involved with football watch parties are the activities. Spending time with family and friends is the main goal. There are several tailgating games that are great backyard fun, such as, Cornhole and Ladderball. Just throwing a football around is fun too! Adults and kids can participate before, during, and/or after the games. As you know, kids may not be interested in actually watching the whole event. Games provide an extra activity to keep them busy while you are watching the game.
Have fun.
While football may be the reason for the gathering, remember it is just a game. Have fun spending time with your friends and family. Make football Saturdays more about memories people will remember. We loved getting into the festivities even before we understood the game. As southerners, football and family time just go together. Happy party planning Mamas!
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