Autumn Family Fun: Football!
joanne August 31st, 2009
One of the most fun family activities for autumn is attending football games. Whether it’s at the high school level or the bigger crowds surrounding college games (which usually incorporate several smaller activities into one day of fun.)
High school games are always lively as it’s a chance to catch up with neighbors, socialize with other students and parents you might not see otherwise, and if one or more children are actually playing in the game, then there’s the cheering and encouragement of seeing them do well. If you gather with other families at a local establishment after the game for dinner, then the fun and time to get to know others carries on for at least another hour or two.
Likewise, college football games are a chance to combine even more entertainment into a single day. College games usually come with tailgating. Teaching kids to help plan the menu and setting up for tailgating a few hours before the game lets everyone get involved. Cooking, decorating, preparing for the game…it’s an exciting time to build team spirit. With the team’s fight song playing in the background, and a grill sizzling with hamburgers or bratwurst, it’s a good time to get some fresh air outside, instead of sitting at home on the couch. Bringing along games like corn hole or hacky sack also provide for some friendly competition. Once the game begins, being in the stands and seeing the bands, the teams, and maybe even special recognition ceremonies for alumni, seniors, or record setters further builds interest in what’s going on besides the game itself, although that’s usually enough excitement in itself.
Professional football games are also exciting, although usually a bit more expensive than high school or college, sometimes making them cost-prohibitive for large families.
However, no matter which football game you decide to attend this autumn, there’s no avoiding the energy of the game, the chance to root for your favorite team, a chance to grill out a meal or go out for dinner, and most importantly, the opportunity to get outside and spend some time together as a family.
