Election Day is finally here, and with it comes a whirlwind of anticipation and that overwhelming urge to eat through it all. For some, the stress of these high-stakes moments can feel overwhelming — and there’s no shame in wanting to gather and support each other, with lots and lots of snacks.
With a few easy, budget-friendly menus, a cozy, last-minute Election Day party can take the edge off and bring a little fun to the big night. Whether attendees are nervously nibbling or celebrating, these treats are the perfect way to fuel the excitement as the results roll in.
Make Your Own Tacos/Nachos Bar
There’s nothing like the comfort of Taco Bell when stress hits, but why not bring the taco experience home? A DIY tacos or nachos bar is perfect for Election Day: it’s hands-on, customizable, and easy to set and clean up. Spread some tin foil on the kitchen table or counter for a quick cleanup, and let everyone build their plates. Gather essentials like tortilla chips, ground beef or a veggie/vegan alternative protein, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Eating without the hassle of plates and silverware is messy and fun, which is precisely what’s needed to keep the vibe relaxed and light.
Snack Boards/Dip Night
Have each guest bring their favorite dip or snack to add to the spread. From classic options like guacamole and salsa to hummus, queso, or spinach artichoke dip, everyone can contribute a little something. Not only does this make the setup fun and varied, but it also helps keep the costs manageable for the host. Lay it all out on a giant board or a few plates, and there’s a communal snack station perfect for grazing as the night unfolds.
Pizza Party
Whether to order a few pies from a favorite local spot or grab some frozen pizzas to heat up, is up to the house, but it’s an easy and delicious way to feed a crowd. Have each guest bring their favorite topping to share to make it even more interactive. From affordable options like pepperoni, peppers, or pineapple to a little more high-end like Mike’s Hot Honey or prosciutto, these toppings give new life to the same-old-same-old plain slice. Plus, having guests bring their own toppings ensures everyone gets something they’d vote for in the pizza polls.
Hydrate
Keep the energy and sugar levels high with a selection of Election Day mocktails. Set up a drink station with soda, lemonade, and red or blue Hawaiian punch as a base, then let everyone add their own twist. Include fun garnishes like lemon or lime slices, fresh berries, and maybe even festive cups and straws. It’s a great way to bring a pop of color to the setup while offering a refreshing alternative to the usual drinks – perfect for toasting the evening, no matter how the results go!
Voting Sticker Drawing Competition
Add a dose of creativity and fun to Election Day with a voting sticker drawing competition. Inspired by a Michigan middle schooler’s popular “unhinged werewolf” design, invite friends to unleash their artistic talents and create their own unique voting stickers. To make it even more exciting, offer a prize for the winner, such as a bottle of something special or a gift card. This friendly contest can double as decor for the gathering, showcasing everyone’s creativity and red, white, and blue.
Photo Corner
Set up a dedicated photo corner to capture all Election Day memories. This small area can be as simple as a backdrop made from the DIY “I Voted” stickers or a blank wall. Encourage guests to proudly don their real stickers from the polls and any additional props, perhaps leftover accessories from Halloween. Whether using a digital camera or a smartphone, this space will become the perfect spot for everyone to commemorate the evening.
Watch Together
Create a cozy viewing area to watch the election results unfold together. Just like the debates, CNN, or preferred news outlets, can be accessed without cable television on platforms like Disney+ or YouTube. Consider setting up a comfortable space where everyone can gather, eat, and mingle. This election is a promising show of democracy, especially for many first-time and/or Gen Z voters. Throwing a last-minute election party is all about connecting with friends, unwinding together, and staying engaged in the process. And once the vote has been cast, there’s not much left to do but encourage others to do so, and, of course, wait. So, enjoy the company, dive into some good eats, and embrace the lively discussions that come with the night.