It’s time for the Superbowl! Are you prepared? Let’s figure out just what you need to have the best party on the block!

Parking:

Make sure your car(s) are tucked away in the garage to maximize your driveway space. Then talk to your neighbors. Are you the only one having a Superbowl party or is the person next door throwing one too? No one wants to get stuck in the driveway so many will end up parking on the street, but if you are having 20 people over and your neighbor is having 20 people over, then parking could be tight. Devise a plan with your neighbor so you both aren’t being negatively impacted by the car situation. Ask your friends to carpool! Let them know that parking is limited and it would be beneficial for everyone if they could just ride over together.

Food:

Food is a crucial part of any party so what are the essentials for the game? Finger foods! You could try to make that food stadium pictured on the left but lets be honest, “ain’t nobody got time for that”! Everyone likes to snack during the game so having chips and dip, lil smokies, veggies and dip, tortellini skewers with a pesto dipping sauce, chicken wings, mini tacos made in muffin tins, pizza bites, or any of these adorable football shaped items will go over very well with your guests. If you want to serve more than just finger foods you can fire up the grill and have burgers, grilled chicken, hot dogs, and ribs! Not much of a chef? Then plan ahead and get take out from your favorite BBQ joint or Publix’s event planners. If you’re feeling lucky you could even win a Superbowl party for 20 from Adam’s Rib Co. if you’re in Gainesville. Don’t forget about dessert! You can always make football shaped cookies or cake pops, these adorably decorated cupcakes, or decorate a cake half 49ers and half Ravens colors!

Drinks:

You can’t very well have a fun Superbowl party without the drinks! Stock up on beer, alcohol, and mixers for your guests. But if you’re looking to have something that will stand out, make drinks for the teams! You can make pitchers full of two different punches – one red and one purple – and your friends can show off their team spirit! You can also add some dye to the beer if you want to keep it simple. So what should be in your 49ers punch? You could make a simple cranberry margarita, be exotic with a pomegranate caipiroska (substitute vodka for cachaca), or get fancy with this spicy bay martini! Your Ravens fans are going to need a punch of their own as well. You can keep it simple with this Ravens Cocktail, try one of these purple concoctions, or this Raven-tini! Don’t forget about the kids! Give them Shirley Temples and grape juice so they can join in the fun!

Safety:

Since you’ll be serving alcohol, safety is key! Don’t let your friends drink and drive! You should take keys at the beginning of the game and only let those with a designated driver have them back. If your friend is unable to drive call them a taxi or take advantage of AAA’s Tow-to-go program!

Not throwing the party?

Lucky You! If you’re just attending a Superbowl party, be sure to be an awesome guest so you get invited back! I know you’ve all learned your party manners already but it doesn’t hurt to have a little refresher! So, be sure to bring something to contribute to the party! Whether it’s alcohol, dessert, an appetizer, or even flowers for the host it’s always appreciated when you do more than just show up!  During the game, don’t overdo it on the drinking, nobody likes the sloppy guy/girl who can get obnoxious. Help with the clean up! You don’t have to stay late after the game, unless you want to, but when you see cups/plates lying around, throw them away. If you see that the appetizer platter is empty, take it to the kitchen and give it a quick wash. The host will have a lot of cleanup to deal with after the game, so every little bit will help make his/her life much easier!

We hope this Superbowl Party breakdown helps with your party planning! Let us know how your party goes in the comments!