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Of all the parties you will throw or attend this year, hosting a Superbowl is definitely one of the easiest.  The entertainment and activities are already taken care of and most people won’t expect much more than a couple bags of chips and plenty of beer.   Since your guests will be showing up with such low expectations, it doesn’t take a lot of effort to really wow them.  Whether you are hosting thirty football fanatics or just putting together a fun celebration for a few family and friends, here are some tips to get you started and help ensure the only fouls called at your party are called on the field.

1.    Do Some Set-up

You may be thinking that all you really need to do for set-up is pull in some chairs from the dining room, but this is a common mistake that can cause problems later on in the party.  You want to make sure all your guests will be able to see the game and that there are easy ways for people to move around.  The last thing you need is people crawling over each other (and your furniture) just so they can get to the bathroom.  Take a few minutes to set things up so there is adequate seating and accessible traffic paths to food, drinks, and the bathroom.

2.     Serve Food Buffet Style

No matter what you are serving, it will be easier for people to get the snacks they want and lower the chance of spills on your carpet if you set up a buffet table just for food.  The coffee table might seem like your best bet for quick food dispersal but having a food buffet that is out of the main viewing area will make everything to do with your party food easier.

3.     Swap Cans for a Keg

Some people will bring their own beer or other beverages but if you are planning to provide most of the beer, opt for a mini-keg rather than a cooler full of cans.  You will significantly cut down on the amount of trash and recyclables remaining after the party if you opt for nicer keepsake cups.

4.     Make a Memorable Menu

It is tempting to grab some chips, some dip, and maybe some salsa and consider your Superbowl spread set. But, with a little planning and effort, you could have everyone raving about your party no matter who wins the game.  There are many easy to make fun party foods that you can use to fill up your buffet table.  Here are some recipes to get you started.

1. Avocado Appetizer
2. Baked Goat Cheese Appetizer with Shrimp Basil 
3. Fried Zucchini 
4. Chicken Enchilada Dip
5. Corn and Black Bean Salsa
6. Jalapeño Pepper Dip
7. Cantaloupe Basil Salsa
8. Arroz Con Chile Verde
9. Black Bean and Goat Burger Chili
10. Hawaiian Meatballs

With a little time and effort, you can create a game day menu that will have people talking for weeks.  Remember, a great game day spread features items that can be made ahead of time and that are easy to serve and easy to eat.

Related articles

• 5 Flags to Avoid at a Superbowl Viewing Party (fillyourplate.org)
• 25 Recipes to Spice Up Your Superbowl Party Spread (fillyourplate.org)
• What Should I Bring to a Holiday Party? (fillyourplate.org)