Advantage, Hostess: How to Plan An Elevated US Open Watch Party
An event that doubles as a social tradition as much as a sport rooted in heritage and intention, the US Open is a cultural moment worth tuning into. The US Open is an iconic 3-week sporting event that is a must experience if you enjoy elegant moments rooted in culture, fashion, and the love of the sport.
If you can't make it to a front row seat in Arthur Ashe Stadium, then I'm here to show you how to bring the hard court right to your own living room, and why it's the next best thing.
A US Open watch party doesn't need a big crowd or a theme — it just needs an atmosphere that resembles the event itself. Intention, a considered menu, and a reason to relax in stillness for a few hours.
Growing up playing tennis, and then just recently picking it back up as one of my "fulfill my whimsical dreams of my younger self" acts, I have fallen back in love with the sport. From one sport there's connection, a real history and appreciation for the game, there's movement. It becomes one of those sports that becomes part of you, one you can't put down even off the court, where you're watching matches while enjoying an evening tea, and studying how to improve your kick serve.
And naturally you begin to want to live in that world surrounded by people who also appreciate the sport. That's where I decided if I can't make it there, then I can create a version that brings it to me.
What You'll Walk Away With
- A simple structure for the day (timing, setup, what actually matters)
- A menu that works for hours of grazing, not one sitting
- A few styling choices that make it feel intentional, not thrown together
When to Host — Reading the US Open Schedule
The US Open lasts two weeks (or three if you count fan week), but which week — and even which day — you decide to host a watch party matters. Before the official tournament begins, there is fan week, which consists of practice sessions and exhibitions.
Week one of the US Open is the kickoff of rounds 1–3 of the tournament, with matches starting in the morning and going into the night. With so many matches happening at once, this is a great chance to see a wide range of players in singles, doubles, and even juniors.
Week two is the most popular, as it is finals week, consisting of rounds 4 and 5, where you see more competitive, high-energy matches with star players.
Choosing the best match day to host a watch party is very dependent on preference — from your favorite championship titles, to your favorite players. The great news is one thing you don't have to factor into your decision: the crowds — which makes it even easier!
What I'm Watching For This Year
This year is anticipated to be a special one, particularly for the return of some of the greats. Serena Williams recently came out of retirement earlier this season in London, and is also playing in the US Open this year. Another great returning after many years is Roger Federer, who in his prime made history with his 5 consecutive US Open titles from 2004–2008.
Setting the Scene — A Court-Side Table at Home
Whether it be your kitchen or patio table, the best way to approach your table is to keep it simple and minimal. Consider a light linen tablecloth, or opt for no tablecloth at all. Incorporate soft creams and greens, with a splash of something fun — like subtle stripes or a bold pop of navy.
The Menu — What to Serve for a Watch Party That Runs Long
The best menu is one that is considered. For an atmosphere like a US Open watch party, you expect to linger, so your food options should be those that survive hours of grazing, and are safe to eat at room temperature (even better if they're easy to eat one-handed when the need to cheer arises).
A Simple Board
- House made chips
- Sliced vegetables
- Fruit
- Cheeses
- Cured/dried meats
Charcuterie Nachos
These are so fun, and such a chic twist on a normal charcuterie board. Start with your choice of chips at the base (though I think kettle-cooked salt and vinegar are the best), then top with all of your usual charcuterie board fixins' — arugula, prosciutto, jams, honey, ricotta. The options are truly endless.
One Warm Dish, In Case It Runs to a Fifth Set
- Burrata dip
- Buffalo chicken sliders
- Spinach and artichoke wontons
- Steak crostinis
Menu Highlight
For a little extra zhuzh, incorporate a fun snack to match the moment. My favorites are these spiked grapes rolled in sugar. They are perfect for summer — sweet, crisp, and right for the moment!
What to Pour — Keep the Bar Simple
When considering the signature drink for the event, if you're feeling on theme, recreating the iconic Honey Deuce is the way to go — you can find the official recipe on Grey Goose's website.
If you're feeling more bubbly and sophisticated, a nice glass of Moët accomplishes just that. Perfect for these elevated, unrushed moments that just have an air of celebration.
FAQs
What size guest list works best for a US Open watch party?
Favor intimacy. 4–8, not a crowd.
Do I need a big TV or projector setup?
No — the room and the food matter more than the screen. In fact, for an event on the longer side, it should feel comfortable enough that you want to linger; you don't need to go above and beyond.
What's a good non-tennis-fan-friendly menu option?
Any of these dishes work as non-tennis-fan options — simply delicious all by themselves, and sure to be crowd-pleasers.
