With Super Bowl XLI right around the corner, students are already making plans for Super Bowl Sunday. If you are hosting a party, there are some things you need to know in order to make it a success.

The TV

Nobody wants to watch the big game on a small screen. The game, after all, is the reason for having the party. If you are hosting a Super Bowl party and have a small TV, think about renting a big screen. Ask the people invited if they would be willing to chip in some money for the rental. If you already have a decent-sized TV, you’re off to a good start.

The guests

Whether you’re throwing a huge party or having a small gathering of people, make sure everyone gets along. During sporting events, especially football, tempers can flare and arguments over the game can arise. Sure, you will disagree with your friends every once in a while, but if there is someone you know you can’t get along with, don’t invite them. If there is tension, everyone will feel uncomfortable.

The beverages

To some, this is the most important part of Super Bowl Sunday. Make sure you have a variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Also make sure you have plenty of it. No one wants to miss the game to go on a beer run. Keep a large cooler close to the TV so you don’t have to run to the fridge and miss part of the game when you need a brewskie.

The food

Food is obviously a large part of throwing a great Super Bowl party. Some common party foods are chips and dip, nachos, little weenies, sub sandwiches, meat and cheese platters and vegetable trays. Basically anything considered a “finger food” is a good choice.

The Decorations

Some might think they’re cheesy, but decorations can add a festive touch to any party. There is no need to go out and spend tons of money – simply buy a couple rolls of streamers that match your team’s colors. If you invited fans from both teams you can get a little more creative. Separate the room in half by decorating one side in orange and blue and the other side in blue and white.

Here’s a look at what some ISU students are doing for the big game:

Beth Maguire

Junior in early childhood education

Maguire plans on getting together with some friends on Super Bowl Sunday.

“We’re gonna watch the game and eat lots of food,” Maguire said.

Her favorite Super Bowl party food is nacho cheese dip with meat in it.

Scott Krava

Senior in health and human performance

Krava isn’t planning on attending a large Super Bowl party.

“I’ll probably just watch the game with a few friends at someone’s house or the bar,” Krava said.

He said that drinking during the game isn’t his main objective for the day.

“I’m interested more in the game than I am drinking,” Krava said.

Josh Fatland

Senior in marketing

Fatland would disagree with Krava. He said the best part of a Super Bowl party is the alcohol.

“If nobody can make out the players at the end of the game, the party has been a success,” Fatland said.

Fatland also enjoys all of the food.

“I like little weenies,” Fatland said. “They’re my favorite.”

Kailey Dickerson

Junior in business marketing

Dickerson plans on attending a big Super Bowl party with friends.

Dickerson offered some advice for a successful party:

“Have people who like football and actually want to watch the game,” Dickerson said. “It will be more enjoyable for everyone.”

Tips for watching the game:

• Invest in a foam “bad call brick” to throw at the TV. If you don’t agree with a referee on a call, chuck the brick at him. You won’t hurt a thing, but it will make you feel better.
• n Dress up in your favorite team’s colors. We can all get a little sick of cardinal and gold. So take one day off from supporting the Cyclones, expand your horizons and sport other colors instead.