Super Bowl 50 is hours away and more than 100 million people will be saddled in their seats watching every punt, tackle, and fumble. This year’s game between the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos at the newly constructed Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California promises to be a huge one. After all, it’s the Golden Anniversary of the institution and they are pulling out all the stops. Stadium and at-home viewers alike are riddled with anticipation gearing up for every over-priced commercial and home-made delectable dish. And let’s not forget the coveted half-time show sponsored by Pepsi and fueled by high-powered talent. The night’s lineup will feature British rock group Coldplay with special appearances by Beyoncé and Bruno Mars, both of whom have headlined previously.
Today as you get ready to cheer on your favorite team while consuming massive amounts of food and guzzling unimaginable quantities of beverages, remember to stay mindful of those around you. The NFL players aren’t the only ones being held under a microscope, don’t be mistaken, your nearest and dearest are holding a close lens on you too. Before stepping foot out the door, here's how to best mind your manners this Super Bowl Sunday.
Today as you get ready to cheer on your favorite team while consuming massive amounts of food and guzzling unimaginable quantities of beverages, remember to stay mindful of those around you. The NFL players aren’t the only ones being held under a microscope, don’t be mistaken, your nearest and dearest are holding a close lens on you too. Before stepping foot out the door, here's how to best mind your manners this Super Bowl Sunday.
Arrive on Time and Bearing Gifts. Official start time isn’t until 3:30pm, but many parties will begin well beforehand. Whatever you do, plan your arrival before kickoff so hosts will not feel compelled to welcome you and interrupt their viewing. Do not show up empty-handed. BYOB (the good stuff please!) or break out your stellar 7-layer dip recipe and you’ll be the life of the party.
Keep it Friendly. Sunday is a family day so children are typically in tow. Keep the atmosphere friendly and comfortable for everyone. Reserve the foul language for the street when you’re walking to your car at the end of the game and monitor your alcohol intake so you don’t embarrass yourself and regret your behavior the next day.
Acknowledge the National Anthem. The moment you hear the music play and Lady Gaga hit her first note, it’s time to stand up straight, remove all head coverings, and place your hand firmly on your heart. We stop and do this simply as a sign of respect. All conversation should cease, but singing is encouraged right along with Ms. Gaga until the very last word is sung.
Pay Deference to the Screen. Super Bowl fans want sufficient screen time, but there are always those who are more interested in making conversation than watching the game. If there are multiple screens, station yourself in the room where you'll cause the least disruption. If you can’t find a seat or feel compelled to stand and shout for your team, just make sure those behind can still see the game. And for goodness' sake, no giant hats or wild accessories that will prohibit the view.
Stay on Topic. On Super Bowl Sunday, the dialogue should be on the game. Know your facts beforehand so you are well-versed in the teams that are playing and the host city. Learn the vernacular, know the difference between a touchdown and a field goal. You want to be able to bond and converse with everyone. This is not the time to bring up a serious conversation, mention a grave illness or ask for a job. Super Bowl Sunday is supposed to be fun. Keep the tone light and breezy and pay attention to the ball. Here’s a complete glossary to everything you could possibly want to know for game day terminology.
Avoid Being the Know-It-All. You may be the type of person who thrives on knowing every minute detail about the two football teams, the players and the Peyton Manning controversy. And you may enjoy spending hours researching the commercials that will be shown during the game, but that information is best kept to yourself. Today is not the day to sit on your soapbox espousing your knowledge. A know-it-all is a big turn off.
Display Good Sportsmanship. Wearing your team's jersey’s and caps, painting your body to show your support, showing the love by cheering them on is all perfectly fine. What will not fly on Super Bowl Sunday is shouting expletives at the television screen when your team misses the ball or picking a fight with your neighbor because he did a victory dance for a touchdown for your opposing team. Remember you are not playing in the game, you are just a fan. Don’t make it personal.
Don’t Bet the Farm. There are more Super Bowl pools than I care to imagine. Know your limits. If you’re an out of control gambler, designate the set amount for your bet before you leave the house so that you cannot be coerced into contributing more than you can afford. There are plenty of pools to choose from and not all require a $500 ante. You certainly don’t want to dip into your child’s college fund for a silly square on the football grid.
Absolutely No Double-Dipping. As George made infinitely famous on Seinfeld, if you take a chip, you get only one dip and then end it! Rather than risk a lecture from the double-dip police, place a handful of chips on a napkin or small plate then use one large chip to scoop extra dip that you can then enjoy with the remaining chips.
Avoid Cutsies at Buffet Line. Inevitably, there will be one coveted line with the short rib pizza or the crispy rice sushi that everyone is going to flock to. Whatever you do, please wait patiently for your turn. If you see friends further up, resist the urge to move even if they are waving you in with permission. It’s not their call and the others behind you will be most appreciative.
Leave No Trace Behind. Be a good guest and clean up after your mess. All those beef rib bones, leftover cold nachos, and ketchup-soaked napkins aren’t going to deposit themselves. Before making your way to partake in more witty repartee, do a complete 360 and leave no trace of trash behind.
Compliment the Chef. Super Bowl Sunday is the second most popular eating day after Thanksgiving and food plays a major part in the enjoyment. Hosts spend weeks preparing the special menu of finger foods typically based around the two playing teams hometown favorites. A compliment to the chef lets them know they satisfied your every need.
You Gotta Give Thanks. Of course, it goes without mentioning to make sure you thank the host before you leave and follow up with a nice handwritten thank you note the following day. Your graciousness will not go unnoticed.
Now go and enjoy the game!!
Now go and enjoy the game!!
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