Football season is here! The crisp autumn air, the roar of the crowd (even if it’s coming from your TV), and the camaraderie of friends and fellow fans make it a truly special time of year. Being invited to a football watching party is an honor, but with that honor comes responsibility: the responsibility to be a great guest. Don’t just show up empty-handed! This guide will help you navigate the often-tricky waters of what to bring to a football watching party and guarantee you’re remembered for all the right reasons.
The Golden Rule: Consider the Host
Before you even think about chips and dip, take a moment to consider your host. What kind of party is this? Is it a casual gathering of close friends, or a more formal affair? Is the host a meticulous planner, or more laid-back? The answers to these questions will heavily influence what you should bring.
Think about the host’s personality. Do they enjoy cooking? If so, maybe bringing a ready-made dish wouldn’t be as appreciated as offering to help with prep or cleanup. Are they known for their extensive craft beer collection? Then a generic six-pack might not cut it.
Communication is key. Don’t be afraid to ask the host if there’s anything specific they need or would appreciate. A simple text like, “Hey, super excited for the game! Anything I can bring?” can go a long way. They might say they have everything covered, which is perfectly fine, but offering shows you’re a thoughtful guest.
Food: Fueling the Fans
Let’s be honest, food is a major component of any successful football watching party. But what kind of food should you bring?
The Classic Appetizers
You can never go wrong with classic appetizers. Chips and dip are always a crowd-pleaser, but think beyond the standard salsa and ranch.
Consider bringing a homemade guacamole, a spicy queso dip, or a seven-layer dip. Presentation matters too! A nicely arranged platter of veggies with a variety of dips can be a surprisingly sophisticated addition to the spread.
Don’t forget dietary restrictions. Ask the host if anyone has any allergies or dietary needs. Offering a gluten-free or vegetarian option shows you’re considerate of everyone.
Other great appetizer ideas include:
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: A guaranteed hit!
- Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Always a crowd favorite.
- Mini Quiches: Elegant and easy to eat.
- Meatballs: From sweet and sour to barbecue, the possibilities are endless.
The Hearty Options
If you know the party is going to be a long one, consider bringing something a bit more substantial.
A crockpot chili is a fantastic option. It’s easy to transport, keeps warm for hours, and is always a welcome sight on a chilly game day. Pulled pork sliders, mini pizzas, or even a tray of lasagna are also great choices.
Consider the logistical aspects of your dish. Will it be easy for people to serve themselves? Does it require any special equipment (like a serving spoon or a heat source)? Make sure you have everything you need to make your dish a success.
The Sweet Treats
Don’t forget dessert! A tray of brownies, cookies, or cupcakes is always appreciated.
Consider a football-themed dessert. You could decorate cupcakes with football frosting, make a Rice Krispie treat football field, or even bake a football-shaped cake.
A fruit platter is a lighter, healthier option that’s always refreshing. It provides a nice contrast to all the savory snacks.
Drinks: Quench the Thirst
No football watching party is complete without drinks.
The Alcoholic Beverages
Bringing beer is a classic choice. However, consider going beyond the standard light beer.
Craft beers are always a good option. Choose a selection of different styles to cater to different tastes. A local brewery is a great place to find unique and interesting beers.
Wine is another option, especially if the party is a bit more sophisticated. A bottle of red wine is a good choice for a chilly day, while a bottle of white wine is more refreshing on a warmer day.
Consider bringing a signature cocktail. A simple punch or a batch of margaritas can be a fun and festive addition to the party.
Always drink responsibly, and encourage others to do the same. Ensure there are plenty of non-alcoholic options available for those who aren’t drinking.
The Non-Alcoholic Options
Not everyone drinks alcohol, so it’s important to provide a variety of non-alcoholic options.
Soda, juice, and sparkling water are all great choices. Consider bringing a selection of different flavors to cater to different preferences.
Iced tea and lemonade are also refreshing options, especially on a warmer day. You can even make your own homemade versions.
Water is essential. Make sure there’s plenty of water available for everyone to stay hydrated.
The Non-Food Items: Beyond the Snacks
Sometimes, the best thing you can bring to a party isn’t food or drink at all.
Game Day Spirit
Show your team spirit by bringing decorations, wearing team colors, or even leading cheers.
A football-themed tablecloth, napkins, or plates can add a festive touch to the party.
Bring a team flag or banner to hang up.
Be prepared to engage in some friendly banter with fans of the opposing team.
The Practical Considerations
Sometimes, the most appreciated contributions are the practical ones.
Paper plates, napkins, and cups are always helpful. The host might already have plenty, but it’s always good to offer.
Trash bags are another essential. A full trash can can quickly ruin the vibe of a party.
Ice is crucial for keeping drinks cold. Offer to bring a bag of ice to help keep the beverages chilled.
Entertainment: Keep the Party Going
Bring a game or activity to keep the party entertained during halftime or commercials.
A football-themed trivia game can be a fun way to test everyone’s knowledge.
A cornhole set or a football toss game can provide some outdoor entertainment.
A deck of cards or a board game can also be a good option.
The Etiquette of Bringing Food
Bringing food to a party is a generous gesture, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you’re being a considerate guest.
Always let the host know what you’re bringing. This prevents duplicates and ensures there’s a variety of food available.
Arrive on time, or even a little early, to help with setup.
Clean up after yourself. Don’t leave your dirty dishes for the host to deal with.
Offer to help with any other tasks that need to be done.
The Thank You: Showing Appreciation
Don’t forget to thank the host for inviting you to the party.
A simple “thank you” as you’re leaving is always appreciated.
A handwritten thank-you note is a more personal gesture.
Consider bringing a small gift for the host as a token of your appreciation.
The Ultimate Goal: Be a Good Guest
Ultimately, the most important thing you can bring to a football watching party is a positive attitude and a willingness to have fun. Be respectful of the host and other guests, engage in conversation, and enjoy the game! If you follow these tips, you’re sure to be remembered as the MVP guest. Bringing something to share is just one part of being a good guest. Remember to be helpful, courteous, and respectful of the host’s home. Contribute to the atmosphere, engage in conversation, and most importantly, have fun!
Being a great guest involves more than just showing up with a delicious dish or a well-chilled six-pack. It’s about contributing to the overall atmosphere of the party and ensuring everyone, including the host, has a fantastic time. Remember to be mindful of the noise level, especially if there are children or neighbors nearby. Offer to help with tasks like refilling drinks, clearing plates, or taking out the trash. And most importantly, be a good sport, win or lose!
Tailoring Your Contribution to the Occasion
Consider the specific nature of the football watching party when deciding what to bring. Is it a Super Bowl extravaganza, a regular season game, or a casual gathering? The scale and formality of the event will influence your contribution.
For a Super Bowl party, you might want to go all out with a more elaborate dish or a themed dessert. For a regular season game, a simpler offering might be more appropriate. If it’s a casual gathering, simply bringing a bag of chips or a six-pack of beer might be perfectly acceptable.
Ultimately, the goal is to show your appreciation for the host’s invitation and to contribute to a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. By considering the host’s preferences, the type of party, and your own capabilities, you can be sure to bring something that will be welcomed and appreciated. So, go forth, enjoy the game, and be the MVP guest!
What kind of food should I bring to a football watching party?
Bringing food is a great way to contribute and be appreciated. Consider the host’s style and the likely preferences of the group. Classic choices like dips (guacamole, buffalo chicken dip, or spinach artichoke dip), wings, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer are always winners. A simple dessert, like brownies or cookies, can also be a nice touch. If you’re feeling ambitious, a themed dish related to one of the teams playing can be a fun conversation starter.
Don’t forget to coordinate with the host beforehand to avoid duplicates and ensure dietary needs are covered. Ask if there are any specific allergies or preferences to consider, and be mindful of bringing dishes that are easy to eat and transport. Bringing serving utensils and perhaps even disposable plates/napkins for your dish is a thoughtful addition that the host will appreciate.
Should I bring drinks to a football watching party?
Yes, offering to bring drinks is a universally appreciated gesture. While the host may be providing the basics like beer and soda, bringing a specific type of beer that you enjoy, a non-alcoholic beverage option, or a cocktail ingredient can be a great way to personalize your contribution. Consider a cooler with ice to keep your drinks cold and easily accessible.
If you know the host well, you might even ask what they’re planning to serve and offer to supplement their selection. Perhaps they’re only offering light beer, and you can bring a craft beer selection for variety. Remember to also offer to help with clean-up and taking any empty cans or bottles with you when you leave.
What if I don’t know what to bring?
If you’re unsure what to bring, the best course of action is to simply ask the host. They’ll appreciate your willingness to contribute and can offer suggestions based on their needs and preferences. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions like, “Are you set on snacks, or should I bring something savory?” or “Do you need help with drinks, desserts, or anything else?”
Alternatively, a safe and always appreciated option is to bring a general hosting gift like a bottle of wine, a six-pack of craft beer, or a selection of gourmet snacks. This shows your appreciation for the invitation and avoids any potential clashes with the host’s planned menu. Even if they have everything covered, a thoughtful gift will be well-received.
Are there any non-food or drink items I could bring?
Absolutely! Consider bringing something fun and festive that enhances the viewing experience. Team-themed decorations, like balloons, streamers, or even a small banner supporting one of the teams playing, can add to the atmosphere. You could also bring a game related to football, like a betting square or a trivia game, to keep everyone entertained during commercials or halftime.
Another thoughtful gesture is to bring extra comfortable seating, like a folding chair or a beanbag, especially if you know the host is expecting a large crowd. A portable phone charger can also be a lifesaver for guests whose phones are running low. These non-food items show you’re thinking beyond just bringing a dish and are contributing to the overall enjoyment of the party.
Is it appropriate to bring my kids to a football watching party?
This depends entirely on the nature of the party and the host’s preferences. If the invitation explicitly states “adults only,” then it’s clearly not appropriate to bring children. Even if the invitation is ambiguous, it’s always best to ask the host directly before assuming it’s okay to bring your kids.
Consider the likely atmosphere of the party. If it’s a rowdy gathering with lots of drinking and potentially strong language, it might not be the most suitable environment for children. If you do bring your kids, be prepared to supervise them closely and ensure they are entertained and not disruptive to the other guests. Packing snacks and activities specifically for your children is a good idea.
What if I can’t bring anything to the party?
If you’re unable to bring food or drinks due to dietary restrictions, financial constraints, or other reasons, it’s perfectly acceptable. Simply let the host know in advance and offer to help in other ways. Offer to assist with set-up, clean-up, or running errands.
Your presence and enthusiasm are often the most important contributions. Offer to be the designated driver, help with grilling, or simply engage in lively conversation about the game. A genuine offer to assist in any way possible demonstrates your appreciation for the invitation and shows that you’re happy to be there.
What’s the best etiquette for consuming alcohol at a football watching party?
Pace yourself and be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Avoid overindulging to the point of becoming disruptive or causing a scene. Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic options. Remember that you’re a guest in someone’s home, and it’s important to be respectful.
Offer to help the host by cleaning up any spills or messes you make. Don’t pressure others to drink if they don’t want to, and be responsible for ensuring you have a safe ride home. If you’re feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to ask the host for assistance. Being a responsible and considerate guest ensures everyone has a more enjoyable experience.