Forget football! Basketball is all the rage in the state with Auburn and Alabama dominating not just in the SEC but nationally. In fact, we’ve heard many folks exclaim “we’re basketball schools now!” This year the rivalry is one of the most exciting matchups in college basketball, making it the perfect occasion to host a spirited watch party. Add a Southern twist with delicious comfort food, refreshing drinks, and classic SEC-style hospitality. Follow these tips to create a game-day atmosphere that will have Tiger and Tide fans alike cheering until the final buzzer!
Set the Scene with Team Spirit Decor
Transform your space into the ultimate game-day haven with decorations celebrating this intense SEC rivalry:
- Team Colors: Deck out your space in Auburn’s orange and blue or Alabama’s crimson and white with banners, balloons, and table settings. Find ideas and party supplies from great shops around the state.
- House Divided Signs: If you have fans from both teams attending, create a “House Divided” section with memorabilia from each school.
- Porch Vibes: If the weather allows, set up an outdoor seating area with rocking chairs and string lights for a cozy Southern feel. Mild temperatures call for corn hole competitions as a nice diversion during halftime.
- Chalkboard Scoreboard: Keep track of the game score or let guests write their predictions for the final outcome. Award bundles of roasted peanuts from Alabama Peanut Co. to the winners.
Serve Down-home Gameday Food
No Auburn vs. Alabama watch party is complete without a spread of Southern favorites. Serve up these crowd-pleasers:
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: A must-have for any Southern gathering—serve with Alabama BBQ White Sauce
- Sweet Heat Sausage Balls: This take on the classic Southern appetizer delivers savory, spicy, and sweet in every bite.
- Kickin’ Cajun Wings: Spicy, flavorful chicken wings that pair perfectly with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Bacon Cheese Grits Bites: Mini cups of cheesy grits topped with crispy bacon and green onions.
- Pecan Pie Bars: A sweet, bite-sized treat inspired by a Southern favorite.
Mix Up Signature SEC Cocktails
Elevate your drink menu with these spirited Southern-style beverages:
- Toomer’s Lemonade Cocktail: Inspired by Auburn’s famous lemonade, mix vodka with fresh lemonade and a splash of soda.
- Yellow Hammer: A popular game day cocktail made famous by Gallettes, a campus bar on The Strip at The University of Alabama. You will love the orange-juice based cocktail—beware the sweet drink packs a punch!
- Bourbon Sweet Tea: Classic Southern sweet tea with a smooth bourbon kick.
- Mocktails: Offer non-alcoholic versions of classic Southern drinks, like peach iced tea or sparkling lemonade.
Engage Guests with Fun Rivalry Activities
Keep the energy high and the competition friendly with interactive games:
- Rivalry Trivia: Test guests’ knowledge of Auburn and Alabama basketball history.
- Tacky Fan Challenge: Have guests dress up in over-the-top gameday gear and judge who wears it best.
- Pop-A-Shot Contest: Set up a mini basketball hoop and challenge guests to a free-throw contest.
Final Tips for a Winning Party
- Encourage Team Spirit: Invite guests to wear their team colors to show off their loyalty.
- Keep Food and Drinks Accessible: Set up a buffet-style spread so guests can grab snacks without missing a play.
- Play Fight Songs: Pump up the energy with Auburn’s “War Eagle” and Alabama’s “Yea Alabama” fight songs before the game.
- Have Fun! The Auburn vs. Alabama rivalry is one of the best in college sports—embrace the competition and enjoy the game!
With a little SEC spirit and plenty of Southern hospitality, your Auburn vs. Alabama basketball watch party will be a slam dunk. So gather your friends, fire up the fryer, and get ready for an unforgettable night of basketball and rivalry fun. War Eagle or Roll Tide—let the madness begin!
