It seems that some of the best parties in the wintertime revolve around football. Even if you don’t love sports, getting together with your favorite people to cheer on your favorite team is the perfect way to spend a chilly Sunday afternoon. With the right setup, including abundant seating options, festive drinks and spirited snacks, your intimate gathering is sure to be a success. Set your entertainment area up for victory by following these five steps for hosting the big (or any big) game!

1. Bring in extra seating for all your friends: When it comes time to finally watch the game, you will want to make sure everyone has a seat. If you don’t have a sectional that accommodates all your guests, consider temporarily moving in seating from other rooms, such as cinema seating from your media room or other power recliners from throughout your house. Cinema seating offers optimal comfort along with multiple cool features. Multiple positions to recline, cup holders to safely place drinks and adjustable headrests will create the optimal game-watching environment for your guests. However, you shouldn’t feel like you need to build a small stadium in your living room; bringing in throw pillows and comfy floor cushions works for a more casual gathering. This allows guests to rearrange themselves according to conversations as the night wears on.

2. Make sure everyone can see the game: The reason for the gathering: watching the football game. Make sure your setup allows for people to watch from both near and far. A modern entertainment center will bring both style and functionality to your space. Your television will be propped higher up, which allows for greater access to viewing from both the living room and kitchen. For an added warmth factor while settling in for the game, consider an entertainment console with a built-in electric fireplace. Electric fireplaces do not need any special wiring and come with a handy remote control for easy operation.

3. Stock up on beer and pre-make themed cocktails in themed colors: Get your guests in the festive spirit with a drinks station that’s got a little something for everyone. A galvanized bucket filled with iced-down beer is sure to feed the masses, while a large batch of a signature cocktail in your team’s color is a more special option. Set out a serving tray finished off with a pitcher, empty glasses and some garnish that complements your tasty cocktail. You may also consider setting up a mini bar or a sofa table with a few drink options and fixings, so guests are able to mix up their own game-day drinks. This is sure to be a touchdown with your guests!

4. Plan and prep easy snacks like chips and dip: No big game watch party is complete without snacking. Make sure you have a spread of both sweet and salty options. Wings and dips are favorited classics, and you can keep your guests fully satisfied by arranging your entire spread on your coffee table or sofa table so it’s easily accessible to your guests. Festive brownies and cookies are also a good addition to your spread, especially for the sweet tooth snackers. Make sure you keep an eye out for any dishes that may need to be replenished throughout the game.

5. Add some simple yet festive décor: A little décor goes a long way. Add a splash of team spirit to your party space by draping garland anywhere that needs a bit of color. A DIY goal post on each end of the snack table is a unique and fun decoration for adults and kids alike.

The staple to a good party involves being surrounded by good friends and good food. By following the simple tips and tricks above, you are sure to be the hostess with the mostest during your fun Sunday football gathering.

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