I have a confession: I know nothing about football. As in, not a single thing. Sure, I know what a touchdown is, but that’s about it. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that I don’t even know who’s currently in the playoffs as we head towards the Super Bowl in a few weeks.
But don’t worry – I do know the single most important thing about football. And that is: Super Bowl Sunday means Super Bowl PARTY! Everyone loves a good Super Bowl party, right? If you think your budget is too tight to host one, think again. Big events don’t have to equal big spending. A little food, some drinks, a few decorations and a TV, and you’ve got the makings for a fun, but frugal Super Bowl party. Here are some simple ideas that can help you keep the price tag reasonable. You can cut a few corners and still have a great time with family and friends watching the big game, (or the commercials, if you’re anything like me!)
Tips for hosting a frugal Super Bowl party:
- Don’t waste money on decorations: Instead of pricey decor for each team, pick up some simple plates, cups, napkins, and maybe some balloons and streamers in team colors at the dollar store. If you buy basic team colors, it’s easy to reuse the décor down the road for a birthday party or another celebration. Plus, this is WAY cheaper. You can find really great party supplies on the cheap at the Dollar Store.
- Involve a co-host: Having someone host with you will save you both money and time. Work together and choose the house with the most seating. Divide costs for food and decor.
- Make it a pot luck: Ask everyone to bring their favorite game day dish. You’ll end up with a bunch of tasty snacks, from jalapeno poppers to buffalo chicken dip, and you won’t have to spend much money. To make things more interesting, turn it into a contest. Have guests vote on the best tasting dish or the most creatively named one.
- Provide the non-alcoholic beverages: You can still allow guests to bring their own alcohol if they wish. You could make punch in the color of your favorite team, or pick up some generic sodas. Bottom line: if you volunteer to provide the alcohol, you’ll be spending a fortune, so let guests bring whatever they’ll drink themselves.
- Find frugal recipes: If you’re providing the main dish, try a slow cooker recipe like chili. The ingredients are relatively inexpensive, you can feed a whole group of people easily. As a bonus, it will stay hot all night so people can eat as they please. Plus, all you have to do is dump in the ingredients and the crock pot will do the rest!
- Opt for real dishes: Paper products can add up in a hurry. If you have enough glasses and plates, you can save money that way. Make sure the dishwasher is empty beforehand and load it throughout the evening.
- Provide options: Some may not be interested in watching the whole game. Encourage your guests to bring a board game or cards and put them in another room for guests. People love the variety of having more than one thing to do, and it won’t cost you a dime!
- Buy Generic: Buying brand name snacks isn’t mandatory. Most stores have a store brand that will allow you to trade out your Doritos and Tostitos for a cheaper option. In many cases, your guests will never even know the difference. What if a guest complains? Just kindly suggest that they can play host when the next Super Bowl comes around!
Do you have any additional tips for hosting a fun frugal Super Bowl party on a budget? We’d love to hear your suggestions – share them with us in the comments!
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