A successful Super Bowl Party by quarter

A successful Super Bowl party has some of the same characteristics of any party — with the exception that it’s not enough to have food and drinks out for the initial rush. You need to have timed releases that correspond to the game itself. Just as Herm Edwards found out, it’s all a matter of clock management.

Before the Game

Set out anything that doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Put the bean dip and the tortilla chips in a bowl, but keep them sealed. Get the beer on ice and make sure the bar is easily accessible and stacked with mixers and garnishes.

Think small — mini bagel dogs and pony beers (the glass beers that are 7 or 8 oz.). When we overeat and drink, it’s much more manageable in small portions.

Crack one set of chips and your first beer. After all, you should be building your excitement as well — this is why you practiced different furniture layouts this week.

First Quarter

Keep it light and small. The Super Bowl is anywhere from a three to six-hour commitment. You want your guests to enjoy it and not feel like they’re in an Alka Seltzer ad. You’ve already set out mini bagel dogs or sliders and chips; lay the groundwork for later by filling a few candy bowls with Peanut M&Ms, but save most of the sweets for after halftime. Doll out pony beers like party favors.