How to Throw a Steelers Homegating Party – Yinzer Style

Being from Pittsburgh, fall is obviously our favorite time of year. Pretty sure this Buzzfeed article about white girls was written all about the ladies in the burgh – especially #7. Fall and football just go hand-in-hand. I haven’t experienced the holidays without the roars of crowds cheering from the television, and of course, dinners are always planned AROUND Steeler games.

Now that I live in NYC AND I have a son, I don’t get to go out an live Steeler Nation everyday, but we do still love to celebrate and cheer on the black and gold from home! Seriously I CANNOT be the only one who buys items in black or gold (think black vests and yellow Hunter boots) just because I know I’ll be able to wear them during football season? You can take the Yinzer out of Pittsburgh but you can’t take the Yizner outta the girl.

The one thing I really miss about Pittsburgh? Steeler caves. That’s right we don’t have man caves, we have STEELER caves. Almost 90% of every basement in Pittsburgh is refinished to be a Steelers bar. They even have Steeler trees – aka a Christmas tree that stays up year-round decorated in Steeler ornaments. Swear. Our football game is STRONG.

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How to throw a Yinzer #NFLHomegating Party

So what is a New Yorker to do to stay true to their team? Throw black and gold parties of course! Luckily, these colors fit right into the realm of lifestyle of winter living in the Big Apple, so asking people to dress up isn’t that hard. Another cool tip: There are a MILLION fabric stores in NYC and you can run into any of them and get a few yards of festive fabric to make a cheap, gorgeous tablecloth. Yes, I’ve even seen STEELER fabric. So of course I throw a few (and throw back a few) yinzerlicious parties right at home so Maximo can learn the true meaning of American football. Here’s how to get er done:

All items are available for purchase at www.NFLShop.com/Homegating

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You can never have TOO MUCH Steeler Stuff

Rule #1 – you can never have too much Steeler stuff. Ok, well maybe you CAN in a tiny apartment, but really – I never hold back when it comes to the Steelers. Maybe it’s a Pittsburgh thing, but I think we just have to have that one…more…platter… or wine glass. or t-shirt. Trust me, you’ll find a way to use it. Just don’t go crazy and buy like three of one thing. Ok – well, F it why not. Who am I to judge.

Steelers platter: $24.95

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Enjoy Yourself

One thing Yinzers know is how to #treatyoself. We may be moms, we may throw raging parties – but we NEVER forget to take care of ourselves as well. Throwing a party is a way to indulge in food and drinks just as much as your guests, so don’t be afraid to set aside one of these beautifully black-etched wine glasses for you, the host. Oh, and a plate of food while it’s still hot. Trust me, we NEVER judge when it comes to food!

Steelers black-etched wine glasses: $29

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Hot Toddies

Nothing says football and fall like a hot drink full of whiskey! Since I was practically raised on Jack Daniels, this is my go-to drink. And what is a better way to enjoy it than in your very own glass emblem Steelers mug?

Ingredients:

– hot water
– lemon
– honey
– cinnamon stick
– shot (or two or three!) of your favorite whiskey. I prefer Jack Daniels but for our fete this week we used Red Stag hard cider!

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All about the Details

One thing I’ve learned about throwing parties is that it is ALL about the details. Maybe this is due to our generation of Pinterest addicts, but it’s the little things that really make your party stand out over others. One way to add some detail is with cute little salt and pepper shakers. Okay wait – they’re YINZER shakers so they’re not cute, they’re BAD ASS.

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Statement Item

You should always have one piece that really stands out and makes a statement at the party. Some claim this to be a huge table arrangement of vases and flowers. In NYC tiny apartments – I say make it practical! Make your statement piece something that you can USE – like this wood cutting/serving board. Seriously this is effin AWESOME. It’s so cool, I actually leave it out on my counter as a cool piece of football art all season.

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Toddler-friendly

Can you find the toddler in this photo? Today, our parties may include mini adults as well, so it’s great to have finger foods that little people will eat (and items that they can’t break!) Favorite football snacks that are kid-friendly include hummus, salsa and chips, mini muffins, rosemary bread, and of course, Maximo’s own mini Pecan Pies. Keep those hot toddies and wine glasses out of reach! Another shot, anyone? Thank God it’s bedtime!

Steelers tumbler glasses: $11.95

Steelers black etched wine glasses: $29

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Looking for more inspiration?

The NFL know the ladies are running the real game here, and have even set up an app. Yep, there’s an app for that! The app allows you to select your favorite team (Steelers of course!) to view upcoming games, send party invitations, get tips on how to Homegate (i.e., grilling steaks, chicken temp, baking, etc.), view and share delicious exclusive recipes from Marc Payero, Chef at NFL Headquarters, shop the NFL Homegating collection, and more. Available for IPhone, Android, and Windows! Download the app here!