By Carlen Ruth Hultgren
Soccer, called futbol by most, is the world’s game, and the parties that come with it are just as global. As the world’s largest soccer tournament kicks off at various locations around the U.S.—and soon in Atlanta—now is the perfect time to celebrate with globally inspired flavors and events. This summer, bring a little of that international spirit to your watch party spread. Whether you’re hosting a packed living room or keeping it low-key with a few friends, here’s how to pull off a match day that’s bold, easy, and worthy of the occasion.
The visual language of the World Cup is flags. String bunting of competing nations across your ceilings, fences, or snack tables. Play an upbeat global music playlist as guests arrive to build energy. Keep the energy high during the break with a mini-soccer pitch setup, penalty-shootout contest, or World Cup trivia. This sets the stage for a great get-together.
What really creates a great party? Great food of course. A successful watch party starts well before the opening whistle. Map out your spread in advance and get your snack station set up before guests arrive. The less you’re doing during the match, the more of it you get to watch. Position your snack station away from the main seating area. It keeps guests moving, plates full, and couch cushions clean at the key moments.
Go global with your snack table A global-themed snack board is perfect for the World Cup because you can easily mix and match flavors. The best match day spreads borrow from the flavors of the sport itself. Set out international dipping options and let guests build their own bites. Choose foods that reflect the teams that are playing in the match you are watching.
Want something really festive? Create a “grass” base using a large tray of fresh guacamole. Surround the guac with a charcuterie and snack mix featuring cured meats from all over the world, Spanish olives, soft pretzels, and French onion dip. Offer globally inspired flavors like paprika potato chips or gourmet tortilla chips. Make sure you have meat-free alternatives for an inclusive table, like hummus or a veggie dip. Label your dishes with small cards if you know you have guests with dietary preferences, it takes the guesswork out of the eating. Soccer tournaments mean long viewing sessions, so your spread needs staying power. Use shelf-stable snacks that won’t wilt during a match or between halves, and keep dips covered until kickoff so they stay fresh.
Batch your drinks ahead of time. A big pitcher of Margaritas and a simple citrus punch let guests help themselves without interrupting the action. Always have a non-alcoholic option that feels just as festive as the rest of the table. Keep the beer and wine next to the food table.
Don’t want to host a party at home? Several of the local East Atlanta business will be hosting watch parties or having specials on the most popular game days. With the World Cup on the North American continent this year, there will be no getting up at “0-dark-thirty” to watch your favorite team. Keep an eye out at the EABA (East Atlanta Business Association) website for announcements of specials and events at the local EABA businesses. Want to be included in this and other promotions year-round? Check out EABA membership at eastatlantabiz.com, or email membership@eastatlantabiz.com to be included in World Cup and future promotions.
