How to Throw a Fancy Football Party for New Year’s Eve

Forget about watching the ball drop — millions will watch the ball being thrown this New Year’s Eve as the college national semifinals will be played in the Cotton and Orange Bowl games.

It’s the first time these games have been played on New Year’s Eve, and sports analysts are expecting huge ratings. If you’re torn between going out on the town and staying in, try a compromise. Throw a football party, but with fancy versions of typical football grub.

In the gallery above, we’ve got ideas on how make classier nachos, step up your chicken wings, embellish your beer, and more. These ideas should keep you plenty full — but still a little festive — as you watch Michigan State take on Alabama in the Cotton Bowl and Oklahoma play Clemson in the Orange Bowl. Game on!

More New Year’s entertaining ideas from Yahoo Food:

9 Best Sparkling Wines Cheaper Than Champagne

How to Make the Ultimate Cheese Platter

Boozy Chai-Spiced Eggnog Wins Every Holiday Party