Election Party Planning Guide: Ideas & Tips

By Alexis Garrett Stodghill, BlackVoices.com

Plan an election party!

The 2008 presidential election is just a day away! But it's not too late to plan a wonderful party for you and your friends to watch the election results roll in. Here are some quick, easy and fun tips. Have a great election night!

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If you are an Obama fan, you have to serve up his special chili. This history-making candidate is not only a great statesman -- he has also been known to brag about his chili-making skills as well. I am sure your guests will love it.

David Roth, FoodPix / jupiterimages

Sen. John McCain has been known to entertain folks on his Arizona ranch with some This would be the perfect type of food to serve to all your McCain fans.

Foodfolio, ImageState / jupiterimages

Red and Blue drinks are the perfect way for partying folks from different "sides of the aisle" to express their allegiance to their parties. All you need to red and blue jello, and then add the perfect vodka for a wonderful political cocktail.

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Hand out stickers and a flag to all your guests who have voted. This way, you will be giving a positive reinforcement to those who have participated in this great civic privileged. Maybe folks at your party who have not voted will be encouraged to vote through this gentle reminder -- seeing all their friends who did!

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Funky red, white and blue party favors (here modeled by cute dogs) can really get your party started quickly. Especially after people have a few of those red and blue drinks! You can give these to guests at the party, or in a goody bag after we see who has won.

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You have got to have an array of traditional "American" foods for an election night party. Hot dogs, corn on the cob and fries are the way to go. If you want to take it "African-American," you can add fried chicken, collard greens and the works!

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Champagne is a must for the moment that a winner is announced. Break open the bubbly so that the victors can share a toast all around. For the losers, they can drink straight shots of vodka, without the blue or red mixers.

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For the dessert portion of the evening, you can serve Republican cookies...

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And a Democratic cake! Plenty of bakeries in your area I am sure can hook you up with this specialized fare -- even at the last minute.

Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

Election 2008 is almost here! I cannot remember an election in years that has had so many Americans deeply involved in its twists, turns and dramas. With the economy, the war, energy issues, health care, race and all the other issues of deep interest to citizens at this time, many believe that this will be the most important election for years to come. So make a plan to watch -- or better yet, throw a party for friends! It's not too late. We have provided you with some great tips above for a last-minute party plan. Our election party planning guide gives you great ideas and tips, but be sure to leave some of your own below.

Have a great Election '08 night!