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A Super Bowl Beach Party
Super Bowl XXXV
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• Super Bowl XXXV Party Time!
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As a resident of New Jersey, I find few things more tortuous in the dead of winter than seeing pictures of sunny Florida. The sound of ocean waves and seagulls taunt my imagination, as do visions of pelicans and sun drenched beaches. I'm ready to call my travel agent to book the next available flight to Florida, which is rarely a practical possibility.

Well, this year's Super Bowl is guaranteed to mock me in my turtlenecks and jeans since it's being held in Tampa. I'm sure the commentators will be more than happy to discuss the balmy weather during the pre-game shows as the majority of the U.S. shivers in their homes and bars. That's why I'm recommending a Super Bowl Beach Party this year. After all, if we can't all be in Tampa, we can at least pretend we are by creating a little taste of Florida in our homes.

Setting the Stage

  • Ask your guests to come dressed in summer attire, as skimpy as they'd like - just be sure to crank up the heat!
  • Purchase fake palm trees to decorate your party room.
  • Hang a large fish net over the buffet table and fill it with artificial sea creatures.
  • Scatter beach balls and Nerf footballs throughout the party rooms.
  • Give your guests a pair of inexpensive sunglasses when they arrive at your party.
  • Serve drinks in hollowed-out coconuts with a straw and a parasol umbrella.
  • Play Beach Boys music in rooms without a television (I know, they're California surf, but it still reminds me of the beach!)
  • Use beach towels instead of a table cloth.
  • Hang posters, pennants or banners of the two competing teams around your party rooms.
  • Plan your menu around casual, Florida flavored foods, but don't forget to include some TV snack favorites. 

Activities

  • Watch the game (this is the Super Bowl, after all!)
  • Set up a betting pool.
  • Organize a half-time limbo contest.
  • If it's not too cold outside, set up a volleyball net for a round of half-time volleyball.
  • Play a game of Nerf football at half-time.

A Super Bowl Beach Party Menu

Florida Cocktails
Serve a selection of these fabulous tropical drinks from Kathy Hamlin, About Guide to Cocktails

Beer
Well, it is the Super Bowl and you'll be watching a beer commercial every few minutes.

Five Spice Appetizer Meatballs
Perfect little finger good for a TV centered party.

Barbecued Shrimp Skewers
Scroll down the page for this easy recipe from JoAnne Young, About Guide to Jacksonville, FL

Ensalada Pico De Gallo
This is a citrus based salad with a slightly spicy dressing.

Black Bean and Rice Salad
This simple make-ahead recipe from Diana Rattray, About Guide to Southern Cuisine, will nicely complement the shrimp.

Key Lime Pie
A super Florida treat, from Tara Mahovetz, About Guide to West Palm Beach, FL

TV snack favorites including chips and dip, salsa and nacho chips, popcorn, mini pizzas, etc.

 

 

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