If you’ve got a man in your house, you better not ask him to take the trash out Sunday afternoon. It’s Super Bowl Weekend! February 3rd marks the 47th (XLVII) annual Super Bowl match-up between the American Football Conference (AFC) champion, Baltimore Ravens, and the National Football Conference (NFC) champion, San Francisco 49ers. Kick-off is set to start at around 3:30 PM PST or 6:30 PM EST, with the game being played in New Orleans, Louisiana.
In case you already knew that much ladies, it’s also exciting to note that Alicia Keys is singing the National Anthem, while Beyoncé is set to perform at the half-time show (rumor has it Destiny’s Child will join along, as will her husband Jay Z). There’s also much talk/anticipation over the Super Bowl commercials where advertisements from the biggest companies try to entice the over 111 million expected viewers. Ever wondered how much a 30-second spot costs during the Super Bowl? This year, it’s to the tune of $4,000,000! Ouch!
Food
Many Super Bowl Parties just wouldn’t be the same without the proper food to celebrate along with. Finger foods work best, especially since guests don’t like to miss the entertainment, the game, or the commercials. Favorite munchies of mine include Grape Jelly Meatballs, Artichoke Parmesan Dip, Hot Wings, and assorted nuts, candy, and popcorn. While many recipe variations can be found online or passed from generation to generation, I love the Artichoke Parmesan Dip Recipe created by celebrity Chef Katie Chin. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 cups Armanino Grated Parmesan Cheese (from World Market)
- 2 (7.5 oz.) jars Cucina & Amore Grilled Artichoke Hearts (from World Market), drained and chopped
- Carr’s Rosemary Crackers
Instructions:
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
- Place the mayonnaise, parmesan cheese and artichoke hearts in a medium oven-proof serving bowl and stir until combined.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serve with crackers.
Drinks are simple at parties because traditionally hosts either order pony kegs or do it BYOB style. However, if you’re looking to step outside the box and away from your popular light beers, some San Francisco and Baltimore favorites may be right up your alley.
The Floating Island Cocktail
- Rum
- Orange Juice
- Grenadine
- 99 Bananas Schnapps
Baltimore Zoo Mixed Drink
- ½ oz rum
- ½ oz vodka
- ½ oz gin
- 1 splash Sprite
- 1 splash Grenadine
- Lemon squeeze
- 1 shot of beer
Decorate
Decorations do not have to cost a fortune. Simple balloons with each team’s colors can be purchased at the local dollar store or supermarket for that matter, before spending more at the party supply place. Signs can be created supporting both teams by simply printing off images from the internet. If you’re planning on doing a Super Bowl pool for your guests, have plenty of dollar bills handy to make change. You can grab a piece of poster board, make a grid and start taking wagers! A super bowl party can be fun for everyone…even if you are not a big sports fan!
By Sheila, Free Stuff Finder Contributor
