How to Host a Memorable Olympics Watch Party

The Paris 2024 Olympics mark the 100th anniversary since the City of Light last hosted the sporting event in 1924. This time around, however, exciting additions such as the new (and hotly-anticipated) breakdancing competition as well as the opening of the Seine River to swimmers will make this one of the most memorable Olympics yet.

For those planning to view at home between July 26 and August 11, this memorable occasion is worthy of a themed fête surrounded by all of your Olympics-loving friends. From snacks that nod to the various participating athletes to customised party favours, it’s the perfect excuse to flex your hosting skills in a fun, festive environment. Ahead, useful tips for preparing a successful at-home viewing soirée.

1. Have a schedule and streaming plan

Logistically speaking, you’ll want to pick a day that best suits what sports your guests are most interested in. For some, the opening or closing ceremonies are the most enticing. For others, a day watching gymnastics or swimming will be a crowd pleaser. Consider polling your friends to find out what they’d be the most enthusiastic about watching as a group and plan accordingly. Additionally, ensure you have the proper network or streaming platform subscriptions. (The Network Nine channels and Stan Sport will both be offering extensive live coverage).

2. Encourage a dress code

If you know your guest list is full of Olympics enthusiasts who might appreciate a suggested ‘dress code,’ include a lighthearted (and optional) attire guide when you send out your invitations (we love this themed invite from Paperless Post, as a side note). This could range from simple team jerseys or ideas for dressing in the national colours of their chosen country.

3. Embellish with tasteful decor

The internet is replete with Olympics-themed party decorations, so determine how heavily you want to lean into themed accents and choose accordingly. For understated decor, stock up on items like Olympic Games toothpick flags or even something subtler like an Olympics-themed jigsaw puzzle splayed out for guests to work on throughout the party. For those who prefer more flamboyant embellishments, go beyond the expected and invest in something interactive, like a cardboard standup or a ring of outdoor tiki torches in honour of the Olympic torch relay.

4. Craft an international grazing table

A party is only as good as its culinary offerings, so make sure your guests are well fed throughout the event. (These 10 BBQ recipes are a good place to start.) While the menu will range based on the time of day and dietary preferences, one easy way to get in the spirit of the occasion is by crafting a grazing table full of bites that nod to different participating countries. For example, mini hot dogs for the United States, caprese skewers for Italy, edamame for Japan, guacamole and chips for Mexico, and so forth.

5. Whip up themed drinks

In a similar spirit, curate a cocktail menu that speaks to a few different participating countries. For Italy, consider something refreshing like an Aperol spritz. As a reference to Mexico, you can’t go wrong with a margarita or a paloma. Sangria for Spain, French 75 for France, or a mint julep for the US – there’s a signature cocktail well-suited for everywhere, no matter how well-known or under-the-radar the libations might be. To simplify, you could also stick with one drink themed after a universal symbol such as the Olympic torch, a gold medal, or the classic rings.

6. Go for the gold with party favours

Being sent home with a party favour will offer a surprise and delight element to your Olympics watch party. While tchotchkes are better left for little ones, no one will complain about a goodie bag of home-made cookies decorated to look like the Olympic rings. Or if you plan to hold interactive games like trivia during the party, consider buying a vintage Olympics t-shirt to give as a prize to the winner.