We’re only a few weeks away from the 2025 NFL playoffs, and things are heating up. Whether your team is torching their opponents like the Detroit Lions or experiencing a dumpster fire on the field like the Las Vegas Raiders, most hardcore football fans will likely celebrate the rest of the season screaming in front of a big-screen TV.
Do you want to make your get-togethers with family special for the remaining regular season games? Or do you want to spice things up for the upcoming playoffs and Super Bowl LIX? Either or, we have suggestions for how to enjoy party planning and avoid serving stale chips and mild salsa.
Below are seven ways to score a touchdown yourself by putting on your own NFL game day watch party.
Choose a Game Day Wisely
The party will likely be much more fun if you’re rooting for your team, but you can never be sure who will be a winner or loser during the playoffs. Regular season games on the weekends are easier to plan around; pick a date you think will yield a perfect number of attendees and lock it into your calendar.
You’re Invited
Invite guests at least a couple of weeks before the game, and kindly ask them to RSVP so you know how much pizza to order or fajitas to put on the grill. Invitations can go out via snail mail to get creative or save time by posting an invite on your Close Friends Instagram story or in the WhatsApp family group chat. If you don’t want to spend too much money on beer, tell your friends it’s a BYOB party. You can even make it into a potluck. Speaking of food…
Gridiron Grub
There’s no set rule on the kinds of food you should serve. You can go as simple as chips, dips, and other snacks, or pull out the barbecue pit and cook some burgers and bacon-wrapped hot dogs. No one expects you to make a six-course meal, but it’s essential to make your game day a good experience for everyone. You can’t go wrong with tacos! Chop up some cilantro and onions beforehand, flip some tortillas and drop some carne on the grill. Then, ask your guests to build their own taquitos. If you’re serving dessert, have a little fun and sprinkle the team colors on those cupcakes.
Presentation is Key
When it comes to football, the bigger the screen, the better. That tio who won’t admit his eyesight is terrible may attend. Whether that’s an 86-inch TV or a projector, make sure the device you use to broadcast the game is top-notch. The last thing you want to happen is for the streaming to start buffering in the fourth quarter with the game on the line.
A bonus suggestion for presentation: Clear off the nearest bedroom bed for all the coats your guests may bring, which will eventually be slept on by one of their niños.
Have a Seat
Wherever you set up the big screen, ensure enough seating for everyone to be comfortable through the entire game and post-game reactions. Throw some pillows on the floor for those who squirm during vital plays. While you’re at it, place some pillows on a few chairs; someone’s kid will surely sleep on them by the end of the day. Just be sure there’s a clear path to the guacamole.
You Got Spirit?
Liven up the space with a little football-themed décor, especially if guests can take it home after the game. How about some swag like mini helmets and footballs? Foam fingers rock, too! Bonus points to any friends who come over with their faces painted in their team’s colors.
The Aftermath
Hopefully, your team wins, so cleaning up after the party isn’t depressing. Take note of what worked and how to make planning easier on yourself for the next hang (or season). If everyone has a good time, they’ll circle their calendar next time you set another game day watch party!
