| Buy some artificial turf and use it as a tablecloth for your buffet table. |
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| Hosting a fall football bash doesn’t mean you need to suffer an economic penalty. From food to post-party entertainment, we can help you score big with these budget-friendly entertaining ideas.
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Pregame Prep
Patricia Mendez, author and entertainment maven, says the host is the person who sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly party. She advises preparing as much food as possible in advance, so you won’t be rushing around at the last minute. She also stresses making your own food to save some money instead of buying it from a restaurant. A great way to do both of these things is with a low-budget buffet. When it comes to football, buffets are always a big hit. People can graze throughout the game, and the wide variety of foods pleases plenty of palates.
- Dip, dip, hooray! Hearty dips and various dipping foods can be as filling as a meal. Try making batches of chili, fondues, hummus, seven-layer dip and salsa to serve with vegetables, chips, crackers, bagel pieces, pita triangles and more. The possibilities are endless.
- Hot dog station. Cook a bunch of hot dogs and/or brats in a slow cooker. Line the buffet table with buns and all sorts of different delicious toppings. Include the favorites such as ketchup, mustard and relish, but spice it up with other toppings such as chili, cheese, tomatoes, mayonnaise, onions and anything else you think your guests might find enjoyable.
- Pizza party. This is one of the easiest buffet ideas out there. Simply buy a variety of frozen pizzas, cook them and cut them into bite-size pieces. Take a few bagged salads, toss them into large bowls and set out a variety of dressings. Then, let your guests enjoy!
Décor Done Right
It’s easy to get your party’s décor into the game by using the football theme as inspiration. Try some of these tips:
- Get two sets of plates and napkins — one each in the participating teams’ primary colors. Guests can choose their favorite team’s colors to show their support.
- Take this idea one step further, and divide the room by color. Put all of one team’s colors on one side of the room and decorate the other side in a different color.
- Buy some artificial turf and use it as a tablecloth for your buffet table.
- Stick coolers filled with ice and canned and bottled beverages around the room so people can pick up their favorite beverage whenever the mood strikes.
Flag-Football Fun
While most people will be watching the tube, some party guests might not want to watch the game, while others (such as any children in attendance) might get bored after a while. For those who crave a little more real-life action, try organizing a flag-football game outdoors. If guests can wait, save the game until post-party to work off the calories you just consumed.
All you really need for a fabulous game is a football, a place to play and some ribbon. Designate opposite ends of the playing surface as the end zones, and put the ribbons in pants pockets or around belt loops. (Don’t tie the ribbons; just loosely loop them.) Make sure the ribbons can come free easily when tugged, and then start practicing your victory dance.
Football Says Relax
Overall, keep your football festivities simple. People are there to watch the game with friends, and they aren’t going to be bummed if you didn’t get their favorite type of napkin. No need to knock yourself out with the food or decorations — just get out there and enjoy the game!
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