Football Parties

It’s no secret that my family is big on college football… and I do mean BIG. On any given Fall Saturday, you’ll find us (and any friends, family and/or neighbors that wish to join) camped out in front of our TV, which has been relocated to the garage for the day, watching from morning until night.

Everyone brings some party food, typically a side dish or appetizer of some sort, but like many hostesses, I’m always a teensy bit worried that my guests will leave hungry. The main dish is simple – hot dogs, burgers and brats always hit the spot. But I’m always up for trying new tailgate recipes to keep things new and exciting.

Tailgating season is a whirlwind of fun and team spirit, but without the right organization, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Here are a few easy ways you can ease the stress of preparing for a tailgate and keep the focus on the fun stuff: food and friends!

I know tailgating season is upon us, because the neighborhood is abuzz with upcoming football games and tailgates. My husband is a huge college football fan so we tend to entertain a lot this time of year and I’m always trying to think of fun new appetizers and sweets to serve our guests at tailgate parties throughout the season.

Get your guests ready to cheer on their favorite team with a stadium of Cheez-It fans!  Not only will it get them in the spirit of things, it’s a great centerpiece for the rest of your football fare.

The big game is here and it’s time to cheer on your team. With family and friends gathering for the big football game, kids want to get in on the action as well.  To help keep the kids active and busy during the game, here are a few quick and easy ideas for hosting your own “Super Kid” games.

Ever since I was a little girl growing up in France, going to the cheese shop with my mother, I have been in a love affair with cheese.  From grilled cheese to cheese fondue, I can't get enough of anything made with cheese.  Whenever I'm entertaining, I love to create pretty cheese platters, and for tailgating I like using Cheez-It crackers.  No matter the weather, these delicious crackers always shine and fulfill my cheese craving.

It's tailgating season and you know what that means.....finger foods and party foods!  There is something about food that you can pick up with your fingers that makes it all the more fun to eat, right?  For your next tailgating party, I have got the perfect appetizer for you that I like to call Creamy Double Pepperoni Pizza-wiches.  This pizza appetizer is quick to prepare and no fuss to eat making it a winning recipe in our house for both parents and kids!

Want some inexpensive appetizers that will please a crowd?  Try out these budget friendly recipes that will satisfy your hungry crowd.

Not going to the game? You don't have to be at the stadium to tailgate like the pros! Invite your friends and neighbors, and then get in to the spirit of the game without leaving your driveway

Before I moved to Ohio, I had never been to a tailgate party. I pictured a handful of friends hanging out by portable grills next to their SUVs, enjoying a few hot dogs. I had no idea that tailgating could involve trailers with fancy kitchens, and long tables laden with elaborate buffets with dozens of dishes. I was blown away when I attended my first game last fall in Columbus, but quickly came up to speed, developing my own repertoire of tailgating dishes that I can whip up at a moment's notice.

Whether your family is getting together with friends to catch a pro football game, college matchup or even the local high school team, tailgate parties are a popular way to get into that game day spirit. Here are a few simple ways we make sure our tailgate parties are successful.

When my husband invites friends and family over for the Big Game, I throw myself into the food preparation. I know nothing about football and want to make sure I have plenty to talk about with the ladies. I'd much rather spend my time with my girlfriends in the kitchen, swapping recipes than trying one more time to understand the difference between a first down and a touchdown. I do pop my head out for commercials though, those I understand!

Are you hosting the Big Game party for your neighborhood, family or friends? If so, you are now the Head Coach. Make sure you have a good plan and recruit a team of assistant coaches to make your Big Game party an easy win.