Pigskin Party: Kicking Off Football Season without Sacking Your Budget

Are you ready for some football? Celebrate your favorite team’s kickoff with a pigskin party. And don’t worry about sacking your budget-- these tips will help you kick off football season frugally.

Free Game Day Recipes - Sargento is offering a free downloadable playbook full of recipes perfect for game day. Whip up some Polenta Pesto Crescents or Barbecue Bean and Cheese Chili to score some big points with your pigskin party guests.

Play Free Fantasy Football - Check out the Fantasy Football headquarters at ESPN.com for free games and news. Access the free 2010 Draft Kit for player rankings, profiles and projections. It’s a great way to get in the game without spending money for tickets. Still haven’t quenched your Fantasy Football fix? Enjoy this free 10-day trial of rotowire.com, which gives you 24/7 access to fantasy sports news and games.

Ask for Beer Contributions - No need for fancy drinks—beer is the adult beverage of choice when it comes to watching football. But buying booze for your friends and family may quickly soak up your budget. So ask guests to bring their favorite brew along to share. You’ll save money and end up with a nice selection of drinks.

Raid the Garage - Rather than spend lots of money on decorations, head to the garage. Pull out footballs, helmets and jerseys to add festive flare. And be sure to wear your favorite team’s colors!

Hit the Craft Store - Right now you can pick up NFL and collegiate fleece for 30 percent off the regular price at HancockFabrics.com. Use this festive fabric to decorate the party space or to sew game day clothing. Every online fleece purchase also comes with a free issue of Fleece Ideas Magazine which may offer some inspiration.

Shop Discounted Decorations - Football party decorations are super affordable at BirthdayDirect.com. Pick up garland for $2.27, a centerpiece for $2.02, and a referee shirt serving tray for $2.97. With these low-cost items you’ll definitely stay within the bounds of your party budget.

By Alison Storm

Eastbay coupon code - Why not get the family outside to practice some flag football? Pick up balls, shoes, and everything you need for family sports, and save $10 on orders over $75 with coupon code IPEBT824. Expires 08/29/2010.

Restaurant.com coupon - If you're not handy in the kitchen, why not pick up takeout from your favorite BBQ restaurant for the game? Save 80% on dining gift certificates with coupon code CLEARANCE. Expires 08/31/2010.