It's March, Let the Madness Begin
For many of us, March means only one thing...basketball. Official picks for the biggest prize in college basketball are announced on March 14 with the opening round of games on March 16. This year the final four teams will vie for the championship on April 3-5 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
With winter waning and spring not quite here, the march to the Final Four is the ideal time to kick back with some friends and enjoy the last of the couch potato activities of the season. Here are a few party planning ideas to get you started.
1. Pick a time. Any game where your favorite team is playing is a good time for you and your friends to get together. But since the NCAA playoffs are sudden death, if you're planning a party weeks in advance and your team loses in an early round, then have other teams in mind to root for. For any game day party, always be sure to have your guests arrive early so no one misses out on any action.
2. Have the right equipment. A widescreen HDTV is a must. Arrange seating so all your guests can easily see...and don't forget the bathroom. Keep a TV or radio tuned into the game there too.
3. Set the mood. Even if decorating isn't your thing, it sets a festive mood and enhances the experience. Leading up to game time, stores are stocked with everything from basketball-themed plates and napkins to balloons, banners, and t-shirts. Be sure to post an NCAA tournament bracket filled in with the winners on the wall for easy reference.
4. Stock up on food and drink. No culinary skills needed. Order cold cut and cheese trays from your local deli and keep plenty of chips, dip and (even) healthy snacks within easy reach of the TV. If a playoff team is from a city known for a specialty dish like St. Louis is for ribs or Philadelphia is for cheesesteaks, consider serving those. Be sure to keep a cooler near the TV stocked with ice and drinks so guests don't have to miss part of the game en route to the fridge.
5. Be ready for spills. In the frenzy of the moment, there's bound to be the inevitable spill. Keep plenty of cleaning supplies like paper towels, brooms and mops nearby for these mishaps.
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