WATCH
WHAT TO
Choose crowd-worthy shows— live, on-demand or rentals—for great watch party fun!
If a live event doesn’t work, show a movie or series instead. Many of the Oscar-nominated movies and new theatrical releases are available through streaming services. Timing is flexible—with no need to plan around a live air date—so you can hold the party whenever it’s most convenient. And if guests are ready for an intermission, you can pause the movie. New releases not catching your fancy? There’s no shortage of classics—both vintage and contemporary—some of which are practically tailor-made to headlining a theme party.
MARCH
2022
academy of country music awards
AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
The 57th annual music awards ceremony honors the hottest country music acts, March 7.
The players championship
NBC/GOLF CHANNEL
The world’s best golfers compete, March 10–13.
a few major entertainment events
happening this month
ncaa basketball tournament
CBS/TNT/TBS/TRUTV
Annual extravaganza featuring 67 games played over three weeks,
March 15–April 4.
academy awards
ABC
Filmmakers and actors are honored for cinematic achievements at the 94th Academy Awards, March 27.
check your local hy-vee for a redbox kiosk. choose new releases, old classics and even video games for
your watch party.
bag
SWAG
Show further appreciation for your guests by sending them home with party favors that reflect the theme of your watch party. There’s no need to break the bank with these items, as even the simplest gifts can make a difference when thoughtfully considered. Find gift bags, wrapping paper, baskets or containers at Hy-Vee, along with a variety of local sports memorabilia, packaged snacks and other watch-party-appropriate gift items.
forget!
DON'T
make these small adjustments to field a better experience for guests.
ATMOSPHERE
Ahead of the party, turn the heat down a few degrees, especially if you’ve used the oven to prep food. If weather permits, open some windows for improved ventilation.
SIZE
Keep the size of the gathering smaller and more manageable. This will make for easier viewing and is a wise precaution during the pandemic.
COMFORT
Stock the bathroom with disposable towelettes and designate a spot for coats, shoes and purses. Place food and drinks where guests can easily help themselves.
SCHEDULING
On the invitation, include arrival and event start times. This will allow time for guests to settle in and reduce the amount of pause breaks during live events.
SAFETY
Set out hand sanitizer for guests and have plenty of single-serve utensils that can be easily tossed. You may even want to have a supply of disposable face masks
on hand.
Avoid carpet or furniture stains by being careful with your food choices. Select foods with less grease or sauce, like popcorn and cheese-and-meat trays, to save on more than just calories.
WITH
DECOR
MORE
Decorating sets the mood—guests get excited as soon as they walk in the door when the room environment matches the event theme. And they’ll leave with a memorable experience.
Bright colors match the energy and excitement of a major sporting event like a college basketball tournament. Find team-branded decorations and colorful napkins, flatware and paper products at Hy-Vee. And check out the local Hy-Vee for any team gear you may need. T-shirts, hats, mugs and more also make for good door prizes for any game-related games that are played during the watch party.
For an awards watch party, go all out with silver and gold hanging spirals or balloons, beautiful bouquets from Hy-Vee Floral, and celebratory champagne and champagne flutes from Hy-Vee Wine & Spirits.
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SOURCES
Harvard Health
Harnessing the upsides of stress
National Library of Medicine
Social ties and health: the benefits of social integration
Neurology
Risk and protective factors for cognitive impairment in persons aged 85 years and older