Sure I'm interested in the outcome of this year's U.S. presidential election. After all, the winner will be leading the United States for the next four years, and change is in the air. So, just like my neighbors, I'll be staying up late watching the election returns and listening to the tedious commentary and dull prognosticating most of the evening. The excitement of following the returns is similar to watching the grass grow, except that there's many more talking heads offering their opinions. To help you stay awake while you wait for all those Pacific Time Zone states to turn in their results, I recommend an Election Night Party.
Since this is a patriotic occasion, you don't have to think long and hard about your color scheme for decorations, tablecloths, and party goods. Red, white and blue will do just fine. Use up the leftover plates from your July 4th barbecue and nobody will know that you've finally cleaned out a cabinet. Stuffed elephants and donkeys pulled out of your kids' toy pile will be the perfect touch for adding that patriotic, two-party spirit to your buffet table. Look under their beds for Beanie Babies that represent both parties if they've been collectors for a while. Just for fun, if you really want to get into the mood, make paper chains out of sample ballots to drape around your room as party streamers.
For fun and games in between the latest breaking returns, play presidential trivia. Or if you have serious history buffs among your guests, play presidential charades. You could even turn this into a costume party and ask your guests to dress like one of our more colorful presidents or as one of the Constitution signers. How about setting up a betting pool for the projected outcome of various races betting on the winners and the winning voting percentages?
Finally, I've put together a buffet menu that pays tribute to the home states of the two main presidential candidates, Arizona for John McCain and Illinois for Barack Obama. May the better candidate win!
Election Night Buffet
Layered Three Cheese Nachos
This dish gives you a perfect party dish with southwestern flair.
Black Bean Salsa
Salsa is another popular party snack. Fill in with chips and vegetables for dipping.
Broccoli Deep Dish Pizza
Chicago is popular for its deep dish pizza. This version includes a lot of tasty veggies along with the sausage and cheese.
Chicken Enchiladas
This easy recipe can be prepared in advance and baked right before your guests arrive.
Chicago Hot Dogs
Adding this Chicago favorite to the southwestern dishes on your menu, will heat up this party even more than the political discussions.
Eli's Chicago Style Cheesecake
Cheesecake is best made a day or two prior to serving, making it a very convenient dish to prepare for a party.
Granny Smith Apple Pie
An All-American party deserves a like-minded dessert.
Red, White and Blue Shooter
This fun, layered cocktail will lend a patriotic spirit to your party, no matter which candidate is your choice.
Other assorted snack foods and beverages such as popcorn, chips, pretzels, and soft drinks. Don't forget the coffee since it's going to be a late night!
