As the Super Bowl approaches, you might be wondering why you should care about this whole spectacle. Think of it like the Melbourne Cup or a footy grand final — even if you’re not a die-hard fan, it’s hard to avoid. Someone in your life will be talking about it, you might be invited to a Super Bowl party, or you’ll spot one of the many bars around NYC showing the game. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you understand and enjoy the Big Game.
1. Master the Basics of Football
The game, commonly known as gridiron, shares a few similarities with sports we know back home — most notably the oval-shaped ball and the goal of scoring more points than the other team. Players can run with the ball (unlike netball) and throw it forward (unlike rugby). The game is played over four 15-minute quarters, but don’t expect it to wrap up quickly. The clock stops frequently between plays, so the whole event usually stretches well beyond a couple of hours. Kickoff is typically around 6:30pm EST, and the game usually runs until about 10:30–11pm. The team with the most points at the end wins, with scoring coming from touchdowns (6 points), field goals (3 points), extra-point kicks (1 point), or two-point conversions (2 points).
Although each side is just one team, it’s split into two main units that rotate depending on who has possession. When a team has the ball, its offense takes the field; when the other team has the ball, the defense comes out instead. Each team has a roster of over 50 players, but only 11 players from each side are on the field at any one time. The New York Times published a great guide in 2024 if you want a deeper understanding of how the game works.
2. Keep Your Eye Out for the Commercials
Super Bowl commercials have achieved legendary status, you probably have seen the Budweiser Clydesdales, and companies go all out to create memorable ads for this event. The breaks between the game showcase some of the most creative, humorous, and heartwarming advertisements of the year, so it might be a good idea to hold off on your bathroom breaks until play resumes.
3. Score Big with Super Bowl Squares
If you’re not really into the football itself, one way to make it more fun is to get involved in a Super Bowl Squares game. Set up a numbered grid and let people choose their squares, with prizes awarded based on the score at the end of each quarter. Bonus points if you turn it into a classic Aussie drinking game. Here’s a short video explaining how to set up the grid.
4. Super Bowl Bingo and Drinking Games
Keep the energy high with Super Bowl-themed bingo cards or drinking games. Create bingo cards featuring common occurrences during the game or set up rules for a drinking game with friends. It adds an interactive element to the viewing experience and ensures plenty of laughs throughout the night.
5. Work Up Some Team Spirit
Once the finalists are confirmed, expect NYC bars to be buzzing with team colors and wall-to-wall Super Bowl coverage. The quarterback is the player who calls the shots when the offensive side is on the field, and they’re usually the biggest name to watch. Beyond the football, keep an eye out for celebrity sightings and off-field storylines — they’re all part of the Super Bowl spectacle.
6. The Halftime Show Extravaganza
While football is the main attraction, the halftime show has become a spectacle in itself. A-list musicians take center stage, delivering unforgettable (and sometimes controversial) performances. Whether you’re tuning in for the music, the visuals, or the inevitable hot takes the next day, the halftime show is a Super Bowl tradition all on its own. Headlining this year’s halftime show is Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, making history as the first Latin artist to solo headline the Super Bowl.
7. Super Bowl Snacks
If you’re settling in for a four-hour game, you’ll want something to keep you fuelled. Classic game-day staples include buffalo wings, nachos, and plenty of dips, whether that’s at a Super Bowl party or ordered straight to your table at a bar. If you’re watching at home, anything from a bowl of chili con carne, a homemade pizza, or a delivery of your favorite Asian food will work. The important thing is enjoying good food while cheering on your team.
Super Bowl LX will be played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, February 8, 2026. We hope you enjoy the game!
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 