How to: Super Bowl Party on a Budget

Super Bowl by the Numbers

Number of Americans Expected to Buy a New Television for Game Day = 5.1 million

Cheapest Super Bowl Ticket Price = $2,247.00

Amount Americans will spend on Game Day Food and Merchandise = $11 billion

Amount Kelly plans to spend on her Super Bowl party = $30.00

Tips for Hosting the Big Game on a Budget

Did you know that Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest party occasion of the year?! It even tops New Year's Eve!

For me, Super Bowl festivities are about three things: football, food, and beer. This allows the party to be casual, relaxed, and fun, without being too costly.

Since I've set a lofty savings account goal for this year, I'm making every effort to host our 3rd Annual Super Bowl gathering for under $30.

Tip #1: Forgo the Frills 
When it comes to decorations, you really don't need any. Balloons, streamers, and table cloths will make the house look prettier, but Super Bowl parties are typically catered to the guys. And the guys won't care about your decorations, or lack thereof.

A clean home always makes the biggest impression.

Instead of burning through your wallet, try burning some extra calories by vacuuming your floors, wiping down your countertops, and dusting your lampshades.

It's also easy to be tempted by Super Bowl-themed plates, napkins, etc. We already have an abundance of Solo cups, paper plates, and plastic utensils in our pantry. So what if they're black and orange plates leftover from Halloween?! 

Tip #2: Look for Coupons & Freebies
Hostess with the Mostess offers free printable labels, cupcake toppers, etc. There are some great budget-friendly ideas on this website.

Tip #3: Stick to One Main Dish
It's better to make one thing really well rather than several things that are just average. Let your crockpot be your best friend. This is the one time of year that Brian likes to make BBQ. It can feed a large crowd for a relatively low cost. Throw it together in the morning and let it cook all day. Voilà!

This year I'm sticking to only one dessert: Sugar Cookies. Nothing fancy.

Do-it-yourself fruit and veggie trays are always a good option. Buy the items that are in season, or else you will end up spending a fortune!

Most people will also ask what they can contribute to the party. Don't hesitate to delegate! This will mean less stress and less spending for you.

Tip #4: BYOB. 
I bought one caffeine-free soda for our pregnant friend, but there's no doubt that everyone else will be drinking beer. I also saw several great recipes for beer punch. It looks fairly cheap and easy, if you're looking for something a little different.

Tip #5: Prioritize
You will be spending a fun evening with your friends. That's all that matters.

Enjoy yourself and have a good time. Remember that nobody will care if you didn't make the mile-high nachos or the seven-layer cake.

Save your money for the important stuff...the gambling!!!!