Every two years, the world comes together for the Olympics, two weeks worth of high-flying tricks, intense competition, and a whole lot of patriotism. Unfortunately for kids, most of the events occur long after their bedtime. While you may not be able to watch every competition as a family, you can still enjoy the opening ceremony (Jan. 7, 7:30 p.m. EST on NBC) while feasting on tasty treats and playing fun games. So gather all your little athletes for an Olympic viewing party that's worthy of a gold medal.
For festive decorations, make Housing a Forest's Olympic ring paper chain. While the creator included a fun fact on each link, you can easily skip that step.
Make your own flags from construction paper and print them off the computer, or buy these premade streamers ($5).
For a healthy snack, whip up Paging Supermom's veggie torch. Make individual canisters, or create a large one that doubles as a centerpiece.
Check out this Olympic craft from Apples and ABC's. Set up a station of cups, paints, and paper so kids can create a gold-medal masterpiece.
These easy-to-make bracelets from Family Your Way can be crafted in the Olympic or US colors. Let kids make their own during the party, or make them beforehand to give out as favors.
Living Well, Spending Less used blue cheese, olives, pepperoni, pineapple, and avocado on her Olympic ring pizza, but you can use whatever veggies and meats your little ones like.
The athletes won't be the only ones winning. Download and print Thirty Handmade Days' Olympic Bingo cards for the kids to play during commercials.
Root for team USA with your food! If the berries aren't in season near you, swap them for red apples and dark purple grapes.
Trade in the store-bought medals for something sweeter. Featured on U Create Parties, The Cute Little Cake's gold medal cookies are a perfectly themed dessert.
As guests leave, remind them to go for the gold with Keeping It Simple's candy-filled goodie bags.