Ask A Philadelphia Expert: Tips For Throwing The Perfect Party For The Big Game

The Big Game is Sunday, February 7, and it will be the 50th one played. People who don't even normally watch football tune in for this final football game of the season. Some may do so just for the extra entertaining-superfluous commercials which cost millions for the prime slot. Regardless, it is a chance to hang out with loved ones and perhaps throw a laid back, yet awesome party. The Eagles may not have made it to the Big Game this year, but this doesn't mean you can't still have a party.

Jason B.
Bleeding Green Nation
www.bleedinggreennation.com

Jason B. from Bleeding Green Nation (Eagles Fan site) said, "It is actually a bit easier to throw a party when your team isn't in it. People aren't worried as much about hearing everything that happens." So relax and have fun, here are a few tips for throwing the perfect party.

Home Field Or Away

The first thing is to decide if you want to host this party in your home or at another venue. Costs are a big part of whether you take your pack to a local bar or in your own home. You will have to decide what you will be providing and what your guests will have to pay. Big Game Specials at Palladino's on East Passyunk include fondue, calamari, potato skins and 60 inch HD TVs. Or if you want to head to Chickie & Pete's, they have the infamous 14 foot television (yes that is over 160 enormous inches).

Make A Touchdown With The Food

A party isn't much of a party without fun food. For the Big Game, you don't want to be fussy, so finger foods (things that don't' require using forks and knives) are best. Think chips and dip (you can throw in some veggies), pigs in a blanket, mini sandwiches and portable proteins (calamari, shrimp, meatballs). You can make it more football themed by adding football related decor around the food, whether it is in football-themed bowls, party supplies and little mini footballs used often for cakes. If you are having this at a local bar, pick one that has some great specials and will allow you to bring in some of your own food. You will have to check first for BYOB locations.

The TV Is Also A Star Player

Your TV of course needs to be working, and you want your guests to feel comfortable to watch it. If you are having a lot of guests, you may even move a TV from another room (sorry kids) so everyone has a great view. Not everyone can go out and get a new TV, however, if you have been waiting to do so, in the few weeks leading up to the Big Game, you will get the best deals.

Related: Top Pierogies In Philadelphia

Give Out A Door Prize

People will enjoy dressing in their favorite gear for your party. (Lucky socks and underwear as well.) One option is to have an "Ultimate Fan" contest to encourage some over-the-top costuming, face painting and creativity; all of which, with a little bit of beer, will make for great photographs. The winner can receive a "trophy" that you pick up at a local party supply store.  You can also do party favors for your other guests that are simple, silly even from kid's party shops in a football theme.

Play Your Own Game

Beer pong and corn hole are typical fun for events such as this. If you have the space, you can easily set up a folding table just within ear shot of the big game. No tailgating or football fueled event is complete without your favorite beverages. It depends on your guest on what to serve; just be sure to have a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. The Big Game is a good excuse to get the handcrafted beer that is made by many of the local breweries.

Related: How To Throw An Eagles Game Party

Christina Dagnelli is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and the author of Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to look at autism. Her work on examiner can be found here Examiner.com.