By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Whatever code you follow, the Grand Final is one of the biggest events in the Aussie calendar - with the last weekend of September/first weekend of October, offering a fun opportunity to gather with friends and family to cheer on your team.
Whether you're a die-hard footy fan or just there for the camaraderie, hosting the ultimate Grand Final viewing party is all about creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the big game.
Here’s how to pull it off:
Photo credit: nrl.com.au.
Set the scene
First impressions count, so make sure your space is game-day ready. Start by arranging enough seating for everyone, ensuring every spot has a clear view of the TV. Pull in extra chairs, couches or even bean bags to create a comfortable yet casual vibe. If you have an outdoor setup, even better! Set up a projector or TV screen, bring out the BBQ and get ready for kick off!
Don’t forget to add some footy flair to your decor. You don’t need to go over the top, but a few banners, team-coloured cups and themed napkins or plates can add to the excitement. Throw in some colour-coordinated balloons or flags to represent both sides.
Score with food and drinks
Food is central to any good Grand Final party. You want options that are easy to eat while watching the game and don’t require too much effort on your part. Here are some ideas:
•Footy favourites: Pies, sausage rolls and hot dogs are classics for a reason. These are easy to eat and hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied.
•BBQ staples: If you’re feeling more ambitious, fire up the BBQ. Snags, burgers and grilled chicken are always crowd-pleasers.
•Snack attack: Keep the snacks coming! Chips, dips and popcorn are must-haves for any viewing party. Don’t forget finger foods like wings, sliders or nachos that are easy to munch on without taking your eyes off the screen.
•Sweet treats: Don’t overlook dessert. Something simple like brownies, lamingtons or a pavlova will hit the sweet spot without too much fuss.
It’s a good idea to cater to all your guests’ dietary preferences. Ensure you have some vegetarian or gluten-free options and don’t forget to ask about any allergies beforehand. Veggie burgers, grilled corn and a few fresh salads can provide tasty alternatives to the meaty fare without compromising on flavour.
When it comes to drinks, it’s all about variety. Have a range of beers, ciders and soft drinks on hand to keep everyone hydrated. For something special, you could mix up a signature cocktail for the day or set up a DIY drinks station where guests can help themselves to DIY cocktails or sangria.
All about atmosphere
Beyond the decor, think about the overall vibe. Make sure the volume on the TV is loud enough to hear the commentary but not so loud that no one can chat. You could even print out a few scorecards or create a friendly betting pool for people to guess the final score or who will be best on field.
To keep the energy up during halftime or before the game, consider some light activities. Setting up a mini footy match in the backyard, if space allows, can be a fun way to get everyone involved. Alternatively, organise a few trivia questions about the teams, players or memorable Grand Final moments for a bit of friendly competition.
Plan for post-game celebrations (or consolations)
The game may be over but the party doesn’t have to end! Whether your guests are celebrating a win or consoling themselves after a loss, keep the good vibes going. Make sure you have a playlist ready to keep the energy up post-game. A mix of classic Aussie anthems, a few victory songs and even some 80s throwbacks can help end the day on a high note.
