No matter who you're rooting for, everyone wants to be at a great Super Bowl party on game day. This year, skip the crowded sports bars and host one of your own. By following these tips, you can transform any space — big or small — into the ideal game-day hangout.
1. Have Plenty of Seating.
The Super Bowl is typically about 3 to 4 hours long, so you'll want your guests to be able to get comfortable. Floor pillows, ottomans, bean bags, dining chairs and even camping chairs can be used in a pinch, but don't be afraid to ask your guests to BYO seating if you don't have enough in storage. A few throw pillows and blankets will make things extra cozy.
2. Provide Enough Surfaces for Snacks.
Similar to needing enough places to sit comfortably, people will need places to set their plates and beverages. Plus, having enough tables will help prevent any spills — which can totally kill the buzz of your party. Folding side tables, TV trays, coffee tables and ottomans are great ways to create lots of surfaces in a smaller space.
3. Offer Easy Access to Food and Drinks.
If you kitchen is connected to or close to your Super Bowl viewing area — great! If not, it might make things easier to set up a designated food and drink station so people can grab snacks and beverages quickly throughout the day.
4. Make a Kid's Space.
We all know that kids can get antsy at longer events, but when the kids are happy, so are the adults. Some kids will gladly watch along with the rest of the crew, but for those who aren't interested, create a dedicated area where they can quietly play. If you have an extra TV and the space for it, you can even set up a special area with kid-friendly movies and games.
5. Make Room for Traffic Flow.
Watching a game like the Super Bowl is a marathon — not a sprint. That means you're going to have to accommodate for people standing up, stretching, grabbing something from the kitchen, running to the restroom or just taking a break from the mayhem. When you're arranging your space for maximum comfort, always include space to move around and an easily accessible walkway.
And remember, don't sweat it too much. At the end of the day, you can't fumble a day spent with with food, friends and family. Grab your favorite snacks, dust off that jersey and get ready for a good time.
