Why Corned Beef and Cabbage?

Corned beef and cabbage is the traditional dish to serve on St. Patrick’s Day, although like many ethnicities’ signatures dishes, it probably developed among early immigrants who were making their way in the New World. Regardless, the simple, hearty meal is a great one to share among family and friends. If you don’t want your house to take on that distinctive odor, however, many veterans’ organizations serve corned beef and cabbage annually to support those who have served.

St. Paddy’s Day Party Planning

Among the edibles in Brit & Co.’s “25 Ideas for the Ultimate St. Patrick’s Day Party” are Lucky Charms treats, shamrock spinach chips and Jameson butterscotch pudding. The lifestyle site also offers crafty ideas including a green felt wreath and yarn jars, as well as St’ Paddy’s Day party printables you can use to decorate the table. Try a few of these ideas, and guests will be green with envy at your almost-effortless entertaining.

Super Bowl Snacks That Satisfy

It isn’t a Super Bowl party without snacks! You can field a range of simple-but-satisfying selections such as meatball sliders, spinach dip and quesadillas, or opt for a gourmand’s gridiron of cauliflower “wings,” tailgate tots, cheeseburger egg rolls and beer cheese dip. Whatever you serve, make sure you have plenty of ice on hand — Americans are expected to again consume more than 300 million gallons of beer on game day—enough to supply Niagara Falls for some seven minutes.

Show Your Colors on Super Bowl Sunday

Football fans who have an allegiance to either of the two teams appearing in this year’s Super Bowl will have plenty of options to show their colors when hosting a game-day party. Rooting for the New England Patriots? Festoon your family room in navy blue, red and silver. More of a Falcons fan? Opt for black and red instead. Or offer guests a choice of colors on party cups, napkins, balloons and cupcakes, and let them take sides ahead of the coin toss to encourage friendly gridiron rivalries.

Get Crafty for Game Day

Decorating for a Super Bowl party can be fun and easy when you get creative. For instance, you can make football-themed AstroTurf coasters with a few pieces of tile and inexpensive grass carpet. Other ideas? Decorate Mason jars with simple football themes, get the kids to help with a paper chain, or make a mock stadium for your snacks. By the time you’re done, everyone will be in a game-day mood, and you can settle in to watch four hours of football, entertainment and high-priced ads.