OLYMPICS-INSPIRED DECOR & VIEWING AREA
For your opening ceremony, turn your TV room into a mini Olympic village. Add warmth and a winter glisten with twinkle strands, lanterns, or LED candles. Create a backdrop of snowy surroundings by stretching cotton filling across tables and mantles. Bring in the international theme with flags from participating countries. These can be made out of fabric, printed on paper, or drawn by the kids. Highlight Italy as the host nation with alpine wreaths, red-white-and-green accents, or a DIY “torch” centerpiece. With the decor setting the stage for a gold medal win, consider where your guests will sit. Arrange your seating stadium-style for prime TV viewing. Place the tallest seats in the back, perhaps using barstools. In front of those, place standard-height lawn or dining chairs. On the floor, provide cushions and pillows for added comfort. Before guests arrive, ensure you have access to the correct viewing channels and set up surround sound with speakers if desired. To keep track of the medal count, display a dry-erase board or chalkboard that provides event status updates. Amplify the fun factor with a photo op area, equipped with an Olympic-themed backdrop and props like ski goggles, scarves, and faux medals. Also, highlight the historical relevance of the Olympic Games. Write out or print interesting facts about previous locations for the winter events and stand- out athletes who participated. Post them around the eating and viewing areas for guests to read.
Set the stage with playful, themed invitations. Create gold medal–shaped cards or design mock event tickets stamped with “Milan 2026.” Include a bit of information about the food and drink options you’ll provide, and be specific about which events you’ll be showing. Time your party to watch it live or stream it later when everyone can gather. Take the theme one step further by encouraging guests to dress to represent the country of their choice, wear ski lodge-inspired attire, or dress like their favorite athlete. You can offer a prize for the best-dressed attendee. SET THE TONE WITH ITALIAN- THEMED INVITATIONS
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