Top 4 Tips for a Memorable Game Day Fiesta

No matter what the sport, the big game is always more exciting when you watch it in good company — the more amigos, the merrier. Here are some tips for enhancing game day fiesta fun, while saving you time, so you can enjoy the game and spend time with family and friends, too.

A Game Day spread with bowls of pretzels, chips and queso, pigs in a blanket and wings beside a football.

Fan-tastic Finger Food

Your guests will be happy— and you won't miss a minute of the action — with a self-serve buffet of gameday appetizers. Lay out a variety of finger foods hungry fans can load up on to their hearts' content: quesadillas, empanadas, tequila citrus chicken wings , and spicy chicken tacos. A good spread will also include several varieties of dips — think guacamole, salsa and queso— with tortilla chips and lots of fresh veggies ready to be dunked.

Various jars and glasses filled with fresh fruit, ice and straws.

Gameday Watering Hole

A well-rounded, but simple drink menu is a key element of a successful gameday party. Include water and other non-alcoholic drinks like aguas frescas, as well as one signature cocktail — margaritas are a good option, since you can customize them to match most team colors — and, of course, several varieties of beers. Set up a self-serve bar by laying out glasses, ice, straws and napkins, and don’t forget garnishes like frozen berries, mint, salt, and lime and lemon slices, so guests can customize their drinks. At half time, set up a coffee bar including NESCAFÉ® Clasico™ and fun mix-ins like chocolate chips, cinnamon, and whipped cream for those guests that need "un cafecito" for added pep.

Don't Pass on Dessert

It’s not a fiesta without dessert, so indulge your guests with miniature churros sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon just like you’d get at the stadium or empanadas filled with chocolate or fruit. For a whimsical touch, whip up some sports-themed cupcakes with a surprise filling of dulce de leche.

A Game Day spread with sliders, beer in referee bottle coolers and chips and salsa on a table with a football.

Score with Spot-On Decor

Set the scene for your gameday event with some inexpensive, but festive sports decorations. Pick out plastic tablecloths for your food and drink stations that look like a football or soccer field or basketball court. Balloons in team colors — representing one or both teams, depending on your guests' allegiances — are a must, as well as sports-themed helium balloons and even team logos. Place them around the room in bunches of four or five, making sure they don't block anyone's view of the TV screen. Other ways to incorporate team colors include confetti, garlands and paper plates and cups for easier cleanup.