Slam-Dunk Basketball Party Ideas

. . . . . .

March is quickly approaching and, for many of us, thoughts of leprechauns and lucky clovers have been replaced with the excitement of NCAA March Madness! It’s a time to gather friends, family and co-workers to watch the up-and-coming stars of the basketball world and cheer on our favorite college team. Whether it’s two classic rivals fighting it out on the court or a no-name college as the underdog, one thing is certain…energetic sports fans will watch with delight as the Final Four is determined.

Some fans may choose to watch at sports bars and restaurants, while many will enjoy the comfort and intimate setting of their family room. Here are a few easy tips that will spice up the competition for an in-home party while providing some well-coached style and flair for snacks and drink presentation.

Host a Snack Attack
A refreshment table is a must at these times. Rather than just throwing your food onto the coffee table, set up a “Madness Table”. Keep it close to the action so no plays are missed while guests dig for chips and load up their plate. Pull out your Lifetime folding table and throw a Macel and Company Basic and Topper over it in the color combination of your choice. Don’t be afraid to throw in a centerpiece of team pennants or basketball themed party favors.  Be sure you have enough treats in case the game goes into overtime.

If your home is filled with guests rooting for different teams you can make the competition on TV be more real in your home. Set-up two Lifetime 37" square tables or round tables, covered with a Basic and Topper of each opposing team’s colors.  Lay the rules out at the beginning of the game:  Only eat from the table of the team currently in the lead. So, if you like one team more than the other, just put the better food on that team’s table.  It’s just a sly way of rooting for your team.

If the game’s good, the action around the snack table will get heated and frenzied. Spills are bound to happen.  Plan for it.  Lifetime tables are stain resistant.  Pair them with Macel & Company’s linens that are machine washable and stain resistant and you’ll rebound from a spill in no time. 

Take the Party Outside
If it's warm enough in your area, take the party outside!  During commercials and half-time, let your guests practice their own all-star shots on your Lifetime basketball hoop.  Or, try a few of these family-friendly driveway basketball games.

Make a Racket with Brackets
Finally, don’t forget about the brackets! One of the fun ways of keeping March Madness exciting is to fill out a bracket. It’s up to you whether you stay loyal to your personal favorites or pick from those the experts favor.  Either way, get creative with your bracket name. Have a contest to see which guest has the craziest or most original name in the pool. Set a gift aside for the winner…something basketball-themed of course!

By Bonnie Whitesides, Co-Founder, Macel & Company