Just because it’s called “super” doesn’t mean you have to be overwhelmed to host the next big football-watching party in your apartment. Get your playbook in order with these party ideas for the Big Game, and your game day event may well be voted the MVP (Most Valuable Party) of the year.

Guests
The #1 thing you need to host a great football-viewing party in your apartment is people. Just like an NFL draft, you should be selective about who you invite. Start your guest list with friends who are rooting for your favorite team, then add in a few who will cheer for the opponents, just to keep things interesting. Be sure to invite friends who always make a party fun, and keep in mind that a third of your invitees typically won’t be able to attend. This allows you to invite more people than you think might comfortably fit in your apartment, but not so many guests that the Fire Marshall would be likely to show up if they did.

Once you’ve got your guest list created, start spreading the word. If you are a plan-ahead kind of person, invite everyone 2-3 weeks in advance, though last-minute invitations are fine if you and your friends are more spontaneous. With today’s technology, you can call, text or create a Facebook invitation. There are also many cool online invitation options, such as those from Evite, Pingg and Paperless Post, to choose between. These online services will allow you to create custom invitations for your apartment party and help you manage RSVPs, reminders, even potluck sign-up sheets.

Gear
So you’ve scored some guests, and now it’s time to plan the main event. Great gear is a must-have for a superb viewing party. You’re going to need a big TV, proper seating, and halftime entertainment. Since your television is going to be the star of the party, make sure you have a screen large enough for everyone to easily see, or have several smaller TVs placed around your apartment.

Now, think about seating. For 3+ hours of game watching, you’ll need seats for 75% of your guests. Others can stand or take turns sitting. Use your couch, living room chairs, dining chairs, bar stools and ottomans. If you still need more seats, borrow from neighbors and friends, or invest in some inexpensive folding chairs.

Even though watching the game is the goal of this party, there will be some down-time before the game, during half-time, and afterwards. Provide fun football-themed party games to keep everyone entertained (or to amuse the guests who aren’t super sports fans). Party stores like Party City are great places to shop for supplies and games, or you can make your own from scratch.

Grub
Let’s get to the meat of the Big Game party plan — food! The party menu for this kind of celebration requires a few staples like dips, chips, and wings. There are also hundreds of themed party recipes available online which you might whip up to make your spread extra special. Another option is to ask your guests to bring their own favorite game-time snacks to share.

Don’t forget to stock the bar with water, sodas and other beverages you enjoy. Go for the extra point with an inflatable football-themed cooler. Let your party-themed plates, napkins and cups (in team colors!) kick up the team spirit, as well.

When it comes to watching football in your apartment, the name of the game is fun. You can have a great time by simply turning on the game and ordering pizza, or turn party ”pro” with a full-on spread of snacks and football-themed activities.

It’s the biggest game of the year, so score a touchdown as host of your own personal-best game-watching party!