As they say, sometimes the anticipation of something is actually greater than the event itself. A good example of this would be almost every Super Bowl, ever. That is an even more appropriate example considering the Super Bowl is this Sunday. So while it is yet to be determined how good the actual game will be, there are a million things going on right now in anticipation of the Big Game, and you’d be remiss, come Monday morning, if you didn’t get your lazy butt off the couch and take advantage. With that in mind, here’s a list of suggestions of things to do for the next few days. And as you’ll see, there’s something for everyone.
For example…
If you like kids, or the NFL, or possibly both, get your tickets for:
The NFL Experience at the University of Phoenix Stadium. Get some free autographs from NFL players, test out real-life football gear, or -- with its array of interactive competitions such as passing, field goal kicking, and wind sprints -- find out once and for all if your 7-year old has what it takes to make it to the National Football League.
If you’re a Scottsdale twenty-something who was priced out of Los Angeles, you’ll want to ask somebody you know to please get you into:
P. Diddy’s Super Bowl block party outside of Scottsdale’s Club Axis/Radius, this Thursday, Jan. 31. Don’t forget to bring your cousin’s best friend’s sister’s cousin, who once met Diddy at a coffee shop. He totally remembers her!
OR...
The 2008 Maxim Super Bowl Party at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort. The date for the party is currently listed as “Saturday, February 1,” which should serve to adequately confuse many of the wannabe celebrities that plan on attending.
Does this shirt make my knees look fat? And what day is it?
If you’re ATM password is “Bosco,” then you don’t want to miss:
The Glendale Chocolate Affaire in Historic Downtown Glendale on 58th & Glendale Avenues, Feb. 1 & 2. Super Bowl + chocolate? That’s a no brainer.
If you came here for the Super Bowl, but you really need a new lamp for your guest room, mosey on down to:
The Antique Shops at Old Towne & Catlin Court in Downtown Glendale. A quaint afternoon spent antique shopping should balance out the drunken disaster that Super Bowl Sunday usually turns into.
If you can’t wait to see up-and-coming contemporary rock star Tom Petty perform at this year’s Halftime Show, then you definitely don’t want to miss:
The Gridiron Greats Super Jam at the Hotel Scottsdale on Saturday, Feb. 2. Come out and see many of the legendary rock stars that have miraculously survived years of touring and assumed excesses, such as Boz Scaggs, Tommy Miller of The Allman Brothers, Pat Travers, and a fraction of Jefferson Starship. Mike Ditka will also be there, of course. To rock.
They don't make rock stars like they used to, with all their dilly-dallying, hip-hopping, and hulabaloo. Back in MY day, a guy like Boz Scaggs would put out three albums per week! And he wouldn't be caught dead doing a duet with Omarion!
Or, if you prefer music from the past decade or so, be sure to check out:
The NFL Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert Series at Jobing.com Arena in Glendale, featuring Mary J. Blige & Maroon Five on Thursday, Jan. 31, and RBD on Friday, Feb. 1. VH1 will be taping the event for a one-hour special to be aired Saturday, so if you act crazy enough, you may even get your own reality show!
If you would like your perceptions of professional football players to be adequately challenged, then come on out to:
Smocks & Jocks 2008, Saturday Feb. 2, 10:30am – 1:30 pm, at Skye Restaurant in Peoria. This event will feature art created by many current and retired NFL players, topped off by a silent auction. It could be your first and only opportunity to say, “The depth of this particular piece is remarkable, and it beautifully leans towards the impressionist style of Monet. You were on my fantasy team last year.”
If you don’t have any money, but would still like to be entertained, come out to:
Super Bowl Saturday Night at Tempe Downtown Lake, from 6-10pm. Why go? It’s free! Experience some great Super Bowl Eve entertainment, such as live music, fireworks, and other cool stuff. It is quite possible that orange drink will be served, but don’t quote me.
For more information on these events, please contact the Internet. Or call Diddy.
Oh, and enjoy the game, too!
Good evening everyone, and welcome to a wonderful evening of theater and picking up after yourselves.
