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The Perfect Super Bowl Soiree

Hosting a Super Bowl party is fun and easy—and it doesn’t have to be stressful!

The most important thing is making sure you have a TV (or two!) and access to the channel the game is airing on. 

This year, the Big Game kicks off at 5:30pm on NBC on Sunday, February 8^th, so plan for guests to arrive at least thirty to forty-five minutes early, to settle in, grab a drink, and catch the pregame coverage. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider setting up extra seating, floor pillows, or even a second viewing area so everyone has a great view of the action.

Next up, is everyone’s favorite part of any party—the food. The Super Bowl is the perfect excuse to serve comfort food that’s easy to eat while watching the game. We’ve tried several different menu styles over the years, including an all-appetizer spread with a best chicken wing 

contest, chili paired with a baked potato bar, and heartier options like steak sandwiches and hot dogs. A mix of hot and cold items works best, so food can be replenished throughout the game without constant trips to the kitchen. Don’t forget clearly labeled sauces, toppings, and spice levels—this helps guests customize their plates and keeps things moving smoothly.

If you want to go all in, serving favorite dishes from the teams’ home cities adds a fun, personal touch. My Ravens-fan friends even fly in fresh crabs from Baltimore! Whether it’s regional barbecue, local sausages, or signature desserts, these details spark great conversation. 

Beer and wine are always crowd-pleasers, but a signature cocktail themed to the teams or the Super Bowl itself, elevates the experience. Be sure to include water and a few non-alcoholic options so everyone feels welcome.

Decor can be as simple or as over-the-top as you like. Team-color plates and napkins paired with a football themed table runner make an easy, polished setup. If you’re feeling creative, Super Bowl–themed cups, logo balloons, and food displays arranged to resemble a football field or stadium really wow guests. Even small details like labeled food tents or mini football flags add to the festive atmosphere.

Along with the game on the big screen, we play a few games to keep everyone engaged, especially during timeouts and commercials. Squares, Prop Bets, and Pass the Hat, bring friendly competition, laughs, and just enough excitement to keep the energy high all night long.

In the end, the Super Bowl is about more than football. It’s a chance to gather with friends, share great food, and enjoy a little friendly competition - making it the perfect way to break up the long, dark days of February.

The Games

Squares

We draw a grid on a poster board. Everyone pays $20 for ten squares and initials the squares they choose. Once the board is full, we draw cards to determine the numbers across the top and side. At the end of each quarter, whoever’s initials are in the square that matches the current score wins cash!

Prop Bets

There are endless fun side bets during the Super Bowl; from how long the national anthem will be, to what the first commercial will be, to how many total points will be scored. A quick Google search will give you plenty of printable options. I charge $10 per sheet, grade them as the game goes on, and award the winner all the money at the end of the night.

Pass the Hat

Everyone who wants to participate puts $1 in the hat. The hat is passed on each down. If you’re holding the hat when points are scored, you win all the money inside! Then everyone throws in another dollar and the game starts again.

In the end, the Super Bowl is about more than football. It’s a chance to gather with friends, share great food, and enjoy a little friendly competition - making it the perfect way to break up the long, dark days of February.