The regular college football season is winding down, and the holiday spirit is settling in. As your favorite team eyes a coveted bowl game, why not merge the joy of Thanksgiving with the thrill of football? It’s the perfect excuse to host a game day party that seamlessly blends the excitement of the season with the warmth of holiday festivities.

Hosting Tips for a Winning Game Day:

  1. Create a Fan Zone: Designate a cozy area with team colors, banners, and memorabilia. It’s the perfect spot for pre-game discussions and post-game celebrations. You likely have plenty of memorabilia in your tailgating stash, pull that out!
  2. Interactive Snack Stations: Snack Stations are a great way to provide plenty of food that guests can eat at their own pace throughout the game. Customize your own nachos, sliders, and build-your-own tacos for a personalized game day treat.
  3. Festive Beverage Bar: Craft a festive beverage bar with signature drinks named after your favorite teams. For a Georgia Tech vs. Georgia Bulldogs matchup (our holiday game of choice), whip up a Yellow Jackets (there are both gin-based and tequila-based versions), Whiskey Bulldogs, or a Bulldog Smash cocktail. Make sure to offer plenty of non-alcoholic options for all your guests to enjoy as well.

Decorating Ideas for a Spirited Atmosphere:

  1. Team Spirit Table Decor: Use a tablecloths & napkins in your team’s colors to create a spirited foundation for your food and drink spread.
  2. DIY Pennants: Get creative with DIY team pennants. Encourage guests to make their own or provide them as a fun activity during halftime.
  3. Touchdown Centerpieces: Create centerpieces with mini footballs and small goalposts surrounded by fall foliage or team-colored streamers.

Scrumptious Leftover Turkey Recipe Ideas:

  1. Cheese Quesadillas with Spicy Cranberry Salsa:
    • Utilize leftover turkey for a hearty quesadilla filling.
    • Top with a zesty cranberry salsa for a perfect blend of flavors.
  2. Turkey Mushroom Bake:
    • Combine leftover turkey with mushrooms, creamy sauce, and a hint of herbs.
    • Bake until bubbly for a comforting dish that’s a touchdown with every bite.
  3. Turkey Sliders Snack Station:
    • Set up a slider station with mini buns, leftover turkey slices, and an array of toppings.
    • Let guests create their own personalized turkey sliders.
  4. Pumpkin Pie Footballs:
    • Transform classic pumpkin pie into festive football-shaped delights. For a quick cheat: grab a giant pumpkin pie from Costco and use a football-shaped cookie cutter to cut out pumpkin pie football bites.
    • Use piped cream cheese icing or whipped cream to create the laces for a playful and delicious dessert.

Remember, the key to a successful Thanksgiving weekend football celebration is the perfect mix of holiday cheer and sports excitement. Gather your fellow fans, indulge in delicious leftover turkey creations, and cheer on your team as they make their way to a bowl game. Here’s to touchdowns, traditions, and the joy of the season! 🏈🦃