Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest events of the year, and whether you’re cheering for your team or just in it for the snacks and commercials, it’s a time to gather with friends and family. But let’s face it—hosting a Super Bowl party can quickly add up in terms of food, drinks, and decorations. The good news is you don’t need to break the bank to throw an unforgettable, fun-filled event! Here’s how to host a Super Bowl party on a budget, without sacrificing any of the excitement.
1. Keep the Guest List Simple
The more guests you invite, the more you’ll have to spend. Instead, focus on inviting a small group of your closest friends or family members. A smaller group means less food, fewer drinks, and a more intimate atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the game!
2. Potluck Style Is Your Friend
Save money on food by turning your Super Bowl party into a potluck. Ask each guest to bring a dish or snack, whether it’s their famous buffalo wings, chips and guacamole, or a homemade dessert. This way, you can enjoy a variety of foods without footing the entire bill. Plus, it adds a personal touch to the event!
3. DIY Decorations
You don’t need to spend a lot on store-bought decorations. Get creative and use what you already have at home! Use team-colored napkins, cut out football-themed shapes from construction paper, or even make a DIY scoreboard on your living room wall (step-by-step below).
DIY Scoreboard Step-By-Step
Materials Needed:
- Black poster board or large black foam board
- White chalk markers or white electrical tape
- Printable or hand-drawn team logos
- Velcro strips or sticky tack
- Clothespins or magnetic numbers (optional)
Instructions:
- Choose Your Wall Space – Pick a blank wall or an area near the TV where everyone can see it.
- Create the Scoreboard Base – Use a black poster board or foam board to mimic the look of a real scoreboard.
- Mark the Layout – With white chalk markers or electrical tape, draw lines for:
- Team names (one at the top for each)
- Score sections
- Quarters (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th)
- Timeouts or other game stats if you want extra detail
- Add the Team Names – Print or handwrite the team names and attach them with Velcro strips so you can swap them out for different games.
- Make Changeable Scores – Use numbered printouts, clothespins, or small magnetic numbers to update the score as the game progresses.
- Decorate for Team Spirit – Add team colors, football-themed stickers, or LED string lights to make it pop.
- Update in Real Time – Keep score manually with chalk markers or swap out numbers for an interactive experience.
Now you’ve got a DIY scoreboard that brings the stadium feel to your living room—without spending a fortune!
4. Make Your Own Game Day Snacks
Instead of ordering expensive takeout or buying pre-made party platters, try making your own game day snacks. Think nachos, loaded potato skins, or homemade sliders—all of which are easy to prepare and budget-friendly. You can even make a big batch of dip and serve it with veggies or chips to keep things healthy (and cheaper)!
Big Batch Game Day Dip (Creamy Cheese & Bean Dip)
This budget-friendly dip is perfect for feeding a crowd on game day! It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Ingredients:
- 2 (16 oz) cans refried beans
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup salsa (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup milk (if needed for consistency)
Instructions:
Slow Cooker Method:
- Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the dip is hot and creamy.
- If it’s too thick, stir in a little milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Stovetop Method:
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine refried beans, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Stir until melted.
- Add Rotel, sour cream, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salsa (if using). Stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the dip is too thick, add a little milk to loosen it up.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dippers!
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Diced jalapeños
- Extra shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
This dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead of time to keep your Super Bowl party stress-free!
5. BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage)
Alcohol can be one of the biggest expenses when hosting a party. To cut costs, ask your guests to bring their own beverages. If everyone chips in, you’ll have a wider variety of drinks without spending a fortune. If you want to provide some drinks, stick to affordable options like beer or punch.
6. Stream the Game Without Cable
If you don’t have cable, there are still plenty of ways to watch the game for free or at a low cost:
- Use a Free Trial – Many streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV offer free trials. Sign up before the game and cancel afterward to avoid charges.
- Check the NFL’s Official Website or App – Sometimes, the NFL offers free streaming for the big game.
- Use a Digital Antenna – If the game is broadcast on a major network like CBS, NBC, or FOX, a digital antenna can pick up the local station for free.
- Find Free Streaming Options – Some networks may offer free streaming on their websites or apps without a subscription.
With a little planning, you can watch the game without paying for cable!
7. Set Up a DIY Photo Booth
Want to capture fun memories without paying for a fancy photo booth? Set up your own DIY photo booth with a simple backdrop (use a team-colored sheet or a football field-inspired design), a cheap camera, and some props like foam fingers or team jerseys. Your guests will love taking silly, candid photos throughout the night! And if you’re an Eagles fan like me—Go Eagles! 🦅💚
8. Stick to One or Two Signature Party Games
Super Bowl Sunday is all about the game, but that doesn’t mean your guests won’t enjoy some extra activities. Instead of filling your party with too many games or entertainment options that cost money, try a couple of simple, low-cost games. You can play a Super Bowl bingo or make a betting pool (just for fun) to keep things lighthearted. These games are easy to create and don’t require a lot of investment.
9. Use Disposable Tableware
You don’t need to worry about washing dishes after the party—disposable tableware is your friend! Opt for paper plates, cups, and napkins in team colors. To save money, buy them in bulk or check out your local dollar store for budget-friendly options. This way, you can focus on the fun, not the cleanup!
10. Enjoy the Game and the Company
At the end of the day, the most important part of your Super Bowl party is the time you spend with your loved ones, whether you’re cheering for your team or just enjoying the commercials. Don’t stress about having every detail perfect—what matters most is that you’re together, having a great time without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Hosting a Super Bowl party doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little creativity and some frugal thinking, you can throw an amazing event that your guests will love. Keep the focus on fun, good company, and memorable moments, and you’ll have a Super Bowl Sunday to remember—without the hefty price tag!
Looking for more budget-friendly tips? Check out my post on Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Ideas That Will Melt Your Heart to keep the celebration going all month long!
