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No matter what your favorite sport is, when you host the watch party you need to be on your A-game. But, like many people, you don’t want to break the bank on food to entertain.
In fact, according to a national survey by DiGiorno(r) Pizza, 90 percent of people look for deals to get more value when making food purchases.
Here are a few tips for hosting a winning game day party on a budget:
GO BIG
Grab some savings when you buy in bulk. Look for party-sized packages of your favorite chips, dips, pretzels and nuts. You can stock up on bulk beverages and desserts, too – saving you time and money.
COUNT ON TEAMWORK
Have each of your guests bring a favorite snack or dish to share with everyone. To make sure you don’t have too many of the same dishes, assign different categories to people – one to bring chili, another to bring chips and dip, etc. For those that don’t cook, let them bring drinks, ice or paper goods.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
Pizza is always a game-time favorite – but ordering carry-out or delivery pizza can get pricey and time-consuming. According to the same national survey, nearly two-thirds of consumers (65 percent) prefer the convenience and quick-preparedness of frozen foods versus ordering out or having food delivered. You can often get more pizza for your money with frozen pizzas.
D-I-Y TO SAVE
Deli and veggie trays from the grocery store can be expensive. You can make your own and save more money. Choose a variety of items you know your guests will eat. You can wash and cut produce a day or two before the party and just store them in the fridge until party time.
DON’T TRASH IT
When you skip disposable plates, utensils and cups, you not only save money, but you also cut down on the amount of trash you have to deal with when the party’s over. Use the dishes you have, even if they don’t match. If you’re having a large party and don’t have enough dishes, borrow some from friends.
It’s easier than you think to host a game-day party that doesn’t cost a fortune. A little planning and some smart shopping means you can enjoy the big game and all the delicious fun that goes with it.
Source: Family Features; Photo Courtesy Getty Images
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