2012 Super Bowl party decorations

Whether you're a fan of the New England Patriots, the New York Giants or simply love watching commercials and the halftime show, the Super Bowl remains a timeless American tradition – and an excuse for a killer party. Food and drinks are usually the main attraction for a Super Bowl party, but these decorating ideas are sure to score big with football fans.

Set the party mood with football-themed invitations. Try Football Feast by Tinyprints or Personalized Super Bowl Party invitations by General Prints. For a no-fuss option, send a casual Evite (seen above) for the big game.

Get the party started from the moment guests arrive. This giant football party sign lets guests know where the party is. Decorate the front yard with foil balloons shaped like helmets (seen above) from the Patriots and Giants, along with metallic footballs from Party City. Mix in a few latex balloons in team colors. Both the New England Patriots and New York Giants have blue, red, white and silver/gray in their team colors.

Super Bowl Sunday is a major food fest. Set up game-day spreads in gathering spots that won't block the television for avid fans, yet still encourage mingling and conversation.

Set the table with a football field table cover or runner. Use a large platter like this referee shirt serving tray for sandwiches. A coordinating touchdown chip and dip set can set a festive mood to the main table spread while smaller football bowls and condiment servers (seen above) are perfect for snack zones throughout the party.

For easy tableware with minimal cleanup, pick up paper plates, utensils and cups in a combination of blue, red and white to cheer on both teams.

For guests more interested in socializing than keeping score, add a few decorative touches that are sure to get them talking. A Beer Mug of Blooms from 1800Flowers.com can add a chic touch to the party (it also makes a fabulous hostess gift). Football lights combined with miniature white lights makes an easy mantelpiece decoration or can light up a snack table. A football-shaped piñata (seen above) multitasks as decor and a fun game-day activity.

For those who want to go all-out with Super Bowl party decorations or find decorations for New England Patriots or New York Giants fans, check out PartyCity.com, Party411.com, or WindyCityNovelties.com.

More Super Bowl party ideas

Top 5 Super Bowl party themes
How to have a slimmed-down Super Bowl
7 Anti-football Super Bowl party ideas