For something a little different this year why not throw an outdoor football viewing party for the Super Bowl? Yes, the big game is in February, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your winter garden with friends and family. We’ll give you some tips to make it a success.
Rule #1: A Gardener’s Super Bowl Party Must Have Viewing Capability
Before you invite anyone, first be sure that watching football in the backyard will be possible. This means being able to set up a TV or projector. Ideally, you’ll have a covered patio or deck for the TV in the case of rain or other inclement weather. If you don’t have wireless cable services, make sure the cable stretches far enough, or purchase a longer one for the big day.
Also, consider using a projector. An HD projector is not that expensive anymore and you can get a large screen for better viewing. The only downside to this is if it isn’t dark in your time zone when the game starts. Whether you choose a TV or projector, get it set up in advance to test the connections and viewing ahead of the event.
Tips for a Super Bowl Party in Your Garden
Setting up viewing for the game is the technical part, but to make your backyard Super Bowl party really fun, consider all the extras. Here are some tips to make it memorable:
- Put up outdoor heaters or gather the party around a fire pit in the garden if it’s chilly in your area.
- Get plenty of seating to make sure your guests are comfortable. No one wants to sit on the brick pavers for four hours. You can ask guests to bring camp and patio chairs.
- Bring out lots of patio pillows and blankets to help people get cozy.
- Clean up your garden in advance. February is generally a time when we ignore our beds and yards but do a quick cleanup before guests arrive to make sure it’s inviting. Add some winter flowers in pots if the weather is reasonable. (Find some with your favorite team colors to make it even more exciting.)
- Serve drinks made from the fruits of your garden. Include any fruits and herbs you grow in specialty cocktails and mocktails.
- Fire up the grill to serve food and ask guests to bring a side dish to pass.
- Use unbreakable utensils, glasses, and plates, so a shattered dish doesn’t spoil the fun.
- Use sidewalk chalk to set up a game of Super Bowl squares.
- Provide toys and games to keep kids and dogs busy, and make sure you have a cleared area of the yard where they can play safely, preferably without too much mud.
- Finally, while an outdoor party in February seems like a ton of fun, the weather could be a problem. Have a backup plan for bringing the party inside if necessary.