Over the many Super Bowl parties I’ve thrown, I’ve learned a few things about planning the food:

Tip 1: Keep on eye on the clock. It’s safest for everyone if food doesn’t sit out all day while you party. Most need to be refrigerated after two hours. It’s about four hours from kickoff to the final whistle. So, instead of bringing everything out in the beginning, I recommend staggering the snacks. Bring a new dish out every hour or so. If the food is in a slow cooker (meatballs!) or can be kept warm on the stovetop, it can stay out the whole time.  Tip 2: Make sure to refrigerate your drinks the night before so that they are nice and chilled when your guests arrive. I guarantee no one will complain if a batch of Pitcher Frozen Margaritas arrive at the table with the chips and guacamole. Tip 3: Snacks are great, but don’t forget about dinner. Would it even be a Super Bowl party without chicken wings, meatballs, or nachos? Or all three? Have one (or more!) filling options since the party will creep into dinnertime. Tip 4: Finish strong! Set out some sweet treats in the second half. I recommend chocolate chip cookie bars or sugar cookies (perhaps, decorated with your team colors).

Have fun!