How to Throw the Ultimate Football Party

Football parties have the intensity, fun and passion of being right at the big game. Guests exchange high-fives, and cheer and boo like they're at the stadium. Friends rehash a good football party for days afterward. Throw a good football party by making your guests comfortable and bringing out their passion for the game.

Step 1

Pick an important game for your football party. Fans like to gather for a game against their team's most-hated rivals, as well as the Super Bowl or other championship or playoff games.

Step 2

Invite your guests at least two weeks in advance. They won't make other plans after hearing about your party. As well, encourage guests to wear shirts, jerseys and other garb of their favorite team. This increases the passion and intensity during the game. Likewise, if some of your guests root for each team, that will increase the fun and intensity.

Step 3

Set out enough seats for all the guests. In addition to living room furniture, use folding chairs or chairs from kitchen or dining room tables. If necessary, borrow chairs from a friend or family member.

Step 4

Plan your menu. Football parties require a lot of snack food, such as chips, dips and pretzels. Bring in or cook your own pizza, wings or subs that your guests will enjoy. Grill or cook your own food but, if you want to watch the game too, don't choose anything that requires extensive preparation during the game. Likewise, invite guests to bring an item to the party, easing your stress and financial burden.

Step 5

Purchase drinks for the party. Beer remains the standard football party drink, but offer other options for those that don't drink alcohol or don't like beer, such as soft drinks, iced tea, water and wine coolers.

Step 6

Decorate the area where you'll watch the game. Put up posters, pennants and other colorful items for the football teams. Putting a few footballs in the room can also help set the mood.

Step 7

Show the game on a large, clear television. Turn up the volume loud enough so people can feel the intensity of the game, while hearing the announcers over your guests' cheering.

Step 8

Encourage guests to celebrate and yell during the game. While you don't want things to get totally out of control, if your guests feel comfortable cutting loose and emotionally get into the game like fans in the stadium, it creates more fun and excitement during your party.