Super event tips from the big game

By John McGory

 

The biggest sporting/entertainment event of the year came and went this weekend.  You have to admit that the National Football League knows how to throw a party. 

Football is America’s number one sport. It always is a plus when your event involves something people cherish.  But this alone doesn’t guarantee an extravaganza. 

Here are five super reasons why the NFL Championship Game sets itself apart from other championship games.

1.    The cyclical nature of the event.  It happens every year at the same time for three or  four hours.  It is not a seven-game series.  It is always on Sunday.  It is a party waiting to happen.

2.    The timing for the game is fabulous.  The beginning of February is the low point of the year for fun and excitement.  Christmas is long gone and cabin fever is setting in for a large portion of the country.  The 6:30 pm eastern standard time kick-off allows all of the time zones to enjoy the game during prime eating and drinking hours.

3.     The entertainment value for those who don’t know who is playing in the game is very high. High profile pre-game and halftime entertainers draw the non-football crowd to the television screens.  The brilliance of making the commercials the highlight of every year keeps people glued to their seats during timeouts.  It is the only time advertisements rule.

4.     It spins off money to all that get a piece of the action.  Food, alcohol, travel, bars/restaurant and television sales all soar.   They keep everyone focused on what we will be doing that day.  The NFL soaks up plenty of free advertising.

5.     It is fun.  The combination of the big game, funny commercials, a boring February weekend and food and alcohol are the ingredients for a country-wide party.  The NFL’s only goal is don’t screw it up.

What can you learn from the big game for your next big event?  Here a few super event ideas from the big game.

1.     People do enjoy things that they can count on for entertainment.  We are cyclical creatures.  Create events that people know that they’ll have fun at each year and you’ve got a winner.

2.     Timing is key.  Don’t compete with other activities or events.  Try and pick a time for an event that is yours alone.

3.     Keep others in mind who aren’t a fan of your theme.  Spouses, relatives and friends get dragged along to events.  Think of creative ways to entertain them if they could care less.

4.     If others can benefit from your successful event then they are sure to be a supporter next year.  Try and spread the love and money and it will return to you many times over.

5.     Keep it fun. 

When throwing an event, learn from the best.  The big game is a great place to start.   

John McGory is the founder of FYF Events, a central Ohio promotions/event company that attracts the distracted. We create, partner, organize and manage events for business and pleasure. Contact us at FYFEvents@gmail.com. or at 614-581-3610. Check soon for our website at www.fyfevents.com or on Twitter @FYFEvents