It seems like for Los Angeles sports fans, there’s always a big game of some sort or another just around the corner…even if right now, they look and feel a little bit different than they usually do. Jack Nicholson may no longer be sitting courtside at the Lakers games, and Brad Pitt may not be visible in the Dodgers stadium seats, but we still cheer on our teams.
All over the country, and in some cases, all over the world, fans are finding innovative ways to host their viewing parties. It doesn’t matter if your party will be limited by lockdowns or if you’re lucky enough to have an in-person event, you’ll be able to score big with the following tips.
What They Are
Viewing parties or sports-themed parties are private events either online, in a community space, or even in your home, where people gather to watch specific sporting events together, either virtually or in person. This can be done for any sport, be it football, basketball, or even horse or car racing.
When it comes to things like football or basketball-themed parties, you’ll already likely have a color scheme in mind. Just decorate the space with things you might actually see if you happened to be viewing the game live and in person. Try using the colors of at least one of the teams as well as maybe a mascot here and there.
Plan Your Style
Maybe you’ll be working out a bit with the guys while you watch or maybe you’ll just want to wear some game day gear. Either way, make sure that you’re looking good for your event. If you’re working out during the game, wear something comfortable yet fashionable. If you’re planning on rocking game day gear, why not go all out and paint your face to show support for your team or preferred entity?
The Screen Play
Ok, so if you’re throwing a sports viewing party, a massive aspect of that will be to actually view the game. To do that, you’ll need to have something to view it on that people can actually see. This doesn’t mean that you necessarily need to have a 70-inch flat-screen, but whatever you do have, you need to make sure that it’s clean and doesn’t have any smudges on the screen. Take a little time before people begin showing up to properly clean it and ensure that the picture is clear and the sound is right.
Hydrating and Feeding the Team
A big part of every party is what you’ll eat and drink. If you’re hosting a Lakers, Dodgers, Rams, Chargers, Kings, Clippers, Galaxy, or Bruins party, there are plenty of recipes available online that will be great for your guests. Remember that while some of them will be coming for the game, others will be coming for the commercials, but all of them will be there for the food. If you want to score big with your offerings, stick with finger foods. These types of parties don’t need five-course meals or fancy dishes. Most of the people will be either standing around or sitting on the couch, so finger foods won’t be messy but will be easy to eat. Stick with things like walking tacos, pizza, sliders, wings, etc.
Planning your food ahead will allow you to relax and enjoy the party more on game day. Consider preparing snack foods in airtight containers hours before the event. They’ll stay fresh and all you need to do is pop the top when it’s time to eat. They’ll also make cleanup a breeze and you’ll waste less food too.
You should also have a selection of beverages for your guests to enjoy. You might include soda pop and the likes for those who don’t drink and a few types of local craft beer for those who do, such as Highland Park or Golden Road. If you’d like to take your party to the next level, you might try some ready to drink cocktails from DRNXMYTH.
Those are a few basic tips to get you headed in the right direction for your sports party. These aren’t lavish and don’t need to cost a lot to host, and if done right, can be the highlight of the season.
