Hosting a Group for a Sporting Event

Prepare the room before the food

Start by deciding where people will actually watch. Check that most seats have a clear view of the television and that glare from windows can be controlled. Test the stream, cable box, Wi-Fi and sound system before guests arrive.

Game-day must-haves

• Enough seating: mix sofas, dining chairs and folding chairs rather than forcing everyone into one room corner.
• Visible screen: raise or reposition temporary seating so heads do not block the view.
• Reliable audio: dialogue and commentary should be understandable without making conversation impossible.
• Charging: provide an accessible power strip or charging station away from drink spills.
• Food zones: place snacks and drinks away from the television so people can refill without walking through the viewing area.
• Coolers or beverage tubs: reduce refrigerator traffic during the game.
• Trash and recycling: put clearly visible containers near the food area.
• Napkins and cleanup supplies: keep paper towels, wipes and a small stain-cleanup kit nearby.

Food that works for a crowd

Favor dishes that can be prepared early and eaten without a knife. Wings, sliders, chili, dips, pizza, skewers, vegetables, chips and small desserts work because guests can serve themselves between plays.

The two-hour preparation sequence

1. Clear tables and unnecessary decor from the viewing area.
2. Set chairs and test sightlines.
3. Test the game source, Wi-Fi, TV and speakers.
4. Fill coolers and set beverage cups before guests arrive.
5. Put cold foods out last and keep hot foods at safe serving temperatures.
6. Set trash, recycling, napkins and serving utensils where guests can find them without asking.

Useful items to compare

Browse folding chairs at Home Depot →

Browse coolers at Home Depot →

Browse serving trays on Amazon →