
It’s that time of year again, Saturdays filled with red and white, the sound of “Jump Around,” and the excitement of cheering on the Badgers! If you’re not heading to Camp Randall, you can still bring the game day spirit home. Here’s your guide to hosting a fun, neighbor-friendly watch party right in your apartment.
Set the Scene
Transform your space into a mini Camp Randall!
- Decor: Add pops of red and white with balloons, streamers, and team flags. A few DIY touches — like football-shaped snack bowls or a “Go Badgers!” banner — go a long way.
- Comfort: Arrange plenty of seating with throw blankets and pillows for cozy viewing. If you have neighbors or friends in the building, invite them to bring a chair or two to share in the fun.
Game Day Snacks
No watch party is complete without great food. Keep it simple but satisfying:
- Wisconsin Cheese Board: Local cheeses, summer sausage, pretzels, and mustards — it doesn’t get more Badger State than that.
- Mini Brats or Sliders: Bite-sized versions of a tailgate favorite.
- Dip Station: Think buffalo chicken dip, seven-layer taco dip, or classic guacamole.
- Sweet Touch: Red and white cupcakes or football-shaped cookies to celebrate every touchdown.
Encourage guests to bring their favorite snacks to make it a true team effort!
Drinks and Mocktails
Set up a small drink station with a mix of options: local beers, hard seltzers, and a “Badger Punch” made with cranberry juice, lemon-lime soda, and orange slices. Don’t forget water and nonalcoholic choices for everyone to enjoy responsibly.
Be a Neighbor-Friendly Host
Apartments can make parties a bit trickier, but with a few simple steps, you can keep things festive and considerate:
- Keep volume in check — excitement is encouraged, but your neighbors might not love hearing “ON, WISCONSIN!” echoing all night.
- Share the schedule — let nearby neighbors know about your gathering ahead of time.
- Clean up promptly — especially in shared spaces like hallways or patios.
Celebrate Like a True Badger
Game days are about community — and there’s no better way to connect with friends and neighbors than cheering on the home team together. So throw on your favorite red hoodie, cue up “Jump Around,” and get ready for another season of Badger pride — right from the comfort of your apartment!