With the AFL grand final just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to kick off your planning for the ultimate game day bash. And we’re not talking a quick trip to the bottle-o and your favourite Uber Eats delivery. This year, it’s game on. Get swept up in the hype, go big, and host a grand final party to remember – all without breaking the bank or leaving home!
Here are our seven winning tips for planning a Grand Final Watch Party full of food, and of course fun!
1. Grandstand views
It goes without saying that a good viewing setup is the most vital part of this party. Check that your screen of choice is good to go (either a decent-sized TV or, even better, hire a projector), and ensure that the sound quality and internet connection (if you need one) are up to scratch. These should be done well before the big day! Next up is a reccy on your seating. Do you have enough? Can it be arranged so that everyone can easily see the screen? Does it score high on the comfort factor? Chairs borrowed from the dining room won’t cut it, so consider picking up a few affordable bean bags or floor cushions (or borrowing some for the day).
2. Score big with decorations
Another pivotal part of the party that sets the vibe is decorations. Corral your friends to help deck out your space with team colours, flags, banners, and other party paraphernalia from your local party supplies store. Alternatively, jump on Pinterest and get stuck into crafting some DIY decorations with friends. Just be prepared – if your pick of the teams doesn’t win, pulling the decorations down post-party can be a sad affair!
3. Embody the team spirit
Passionate supporters won’t shy away from getting decked out in their team colours, so encourage your party people to dress the part. Set the tone for fun with guests donning either their favourite merch or team colours or dressing up as their favourite player of all time. And because everyone has that one friend who doesn’t dress up, grab some face paint at the party supplies store, too, so you can get them in the spirit on arrival.
3. Embody the team spirit
Arguably, the most critical part of any great party, but especially a grand final party, is the sideline snacking and hydration. Rather than tackling this task single-handedly, take a team approach and make it a BYO drinks and/or a bring-a-plate affair. If you want to score big on the praise, inject something special, like themed cocktails, an epic grazing board to nibble on during the game and a selection of gourmet pies to compliment the inevitable game day BBQ.
5. Don’t overlook the pre (and post) match entertainment
While the game is the main event, having some pre- and post-match entertainment up your sleeve is a great way to keep the party vibe going. You could run your own backyard footy match, rugby tackles with kids to kicks, dabble in some beer pong, whip up a fun footy quiz, or simply have a playlist ready to pump some party tunes.
5. Don’t overlook the pre (and post) match entertainment
There’s nothing quite like a photo booth or wall to breathe life into a party, especially when paired with fancy dress and face paint. There are plenty of DIY photo booth ideas online to help you capture happy snaps. Alternatively, go old school with some disposable film cameras and watch the hobby photographers spring into action. Developing films filled with candid shots at a later date is bound to be a bit of fun, too!
7. Pre-game day prep for your home
Is your home prepped for the party? At least a couple of weeks out from game day, spend some time giving your home the once over. Check things like the BBQ – is it ready to be fired up? Is the gas bottle full? Is your outdoor area neat and tidy, or could it do with some love? Check for clutter in the spaces where you’ll be entertaining, and pay extra attention to your bathrooms, too – are they ready to handle the masses?
Sit back and enjoy the game!
By incorporating these tips and getting friends and family involved along the way, you’re sure to pull off a fun, memorable grand final party to remember – who knows, it might even become an annual tradition. If you’ve realised the decorations and floor pillows just aren’t cutting it, and a move to an entertainer’s abode is what you really need, contact your local First National Real Estate expert. They’ll provide all the guidance and advice you need to find the key to your happiness – a home to host the most epic parties!