Our inspiration board proves that sporty needn't equal sloppy. An astroturf runner is a clean backdrop to an array of crowd-pleasing appetizers; terracotta pots with tiny footballs and colorful flags make centerpieces that ooze team spirit.
Start the party an hour before kickoff to give guests time to mingle and settle in with an ice cold beer. Set up the buffet on a kitchen island to keep things simple, and score big with chili fans by setting out a steaming pot of this Chicken & White Bean version.
Eschew the specialty cocktail in favor of a selection of microbrews. Trust me: the guys will thank you. These monogrammed beer mugs add a dash of style, especially when chilled in the freezer before guests arrive.
Fill galvanized trays with flats of wheatgrass for an on-theme and inexpensive decor element. With mini football figurines and goalposts, they become little playing fields right on the tabletop.
These football cupcakes equal total dessert victory: they'll satisfy sugar cravings and provide visual interest for the buffet. Get the full instructions here, along with our other party recipes for Mango & Avocado Salsa, Chicken & White Bean Chili, & Jicama-Citrus Slaw. Score!
*images: {row 1} beer poster, donuts {row 2} real simple party {row 3} epicurious party, chicken wings {row 4} grasshopper cake, taquitos. instyle parties!, pottery barn, bakerella.
