4 Tips for Saving Money on Your March Madness Party

March Madness is dying down and the Final Four have been decided: Kentucky, Louisville, Ohio State and Kansas. We can’t wait for this weekend’s matchups to see who is going to win the whole tournament!

Sure, we like watching college basketball as much as the next person, but like the Superbowl, the parties are much more our style. Whether you placed a bet on the game or are just watching for fun, we put together some tips on how to make the most out of your March Madness party.

1. Watch the game. Plan your party to start a few hours before tipoff so you can eat, drink and catch up. You might not care who wins but if you’re throwing a March Madness party, people will want to see the game!

2. Theme it. You don’t have to break the bank to show your team spirit! Don’t waste money on Kansas cups or Louisville plates. Just go to the nearest party supplies store and stock up on solid-colored silverware, cups, plates and tablecloths in your team’s colors.

3. Stagger the food. There’s nothing more overwhelming than planning a party where all the food has to be ready at the same time. Make the most of your food – and make sure none goes to waste – by staggering the times you put the food out. Start with fresh veggies and dips, then gradually bring out more food as more people show up. That way, you won’t be as stressed out and your oven won’t be on for hours at a time, wasting precious energy!

4. Offer one or two alcoholic drinks. Just because you’re throwing a party doesn’t mean you are obligated to buy everything from Grandma’s gin and tonics to your sister’s pinot grigio. Offer one – or two, max – alcoholic beverage options and let your guests know in advance. They can either drink what you have or bring their own booze.

Check out the March Madness-themed offers below and stock up for the big game! Who are you rooting for?