How to: Host a world cup watch-along

The World Cup, to put it simply, is the single most unifying event on the face of the planet. Local rivalries become shared dreams, notions of glory go nationwide, and homes become seats on the halfway line. That is why hosting a World Cup party has become something of a ritual for many, a once-in-every-four-year chance to gather your nearest and dearest. But while (we hope) there is plenty of winning on the pitch, what is the winning formula for the perfect watch party?

Is your living room ready to be a fanzone? Is your garden geared up for outdoor enjoyment? Get the answers to all your questions here, with our ultimate World Cup hosting guide.

The beautiful game is the most watched sport on earth, but if you can't do it from inside the stadium then the next best, fortunately, the seating options in this regard tend to be a little more cushioned and comfortable. Make sure that if you're going to host an event, your sofa space isn't the only option.

Commandeer seating from dining rooms, even outdoors if you have to. The best idea is to rely on stools and ottomans that can be moved and organised to suit the needs of the adoring crowds, depending on the number. The last thing you want is standing room only.

The World Cup, Copa Mundial, Coupe du Monde. However you say it, it is a truly global affair, made up of nations that are not only famous for their football but for their food too. A watch party is a great chance to show off your own culinary skills, but do you have the space to set it all down and serve it up?

Dining tables, preferably extendable, are the main event: a giant platter for every dish you can muster. Serving trolleys are ideal for the numerous drinks breaks, while low tables provide plenty of smaller surfaces for snacks and nibbles.

The clue is in the name: Watch party. You need something to actually watch on. If you really want to feel close to the action without having to leave the comfort of home, then you're going to need to up your Audio/Visual game. Get yourself an all-purpose TV unit to display every minute of action, even better if it has space to incorporate a sound system. This makes you feel as if you were in the very cauldron of atmosphere itself.

The world's biggest sporting spectacle coincides with a meteorological sweet spot. Kicking off just 10 days before the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice, your outdoor areas are set to play a pivotal role in your watch-party line-up.

Whether you're firing up the BBQ to sate hungry fans or heading out for a half-time kickabout to settle the nerves during a shaky 1-0 lead, one thing is certain: with the majority of matches going long into the night on this side of the Atlantic, you'll almost certainly need some outdoor lighting.

Football is enthralling, but famously lasts only 90 minutes. So, it's on you to keep people entertained before and after the whistle blows. There are a multitude of ways you can achieve this, from table football to pool tables. Card games to game consoles. Just make sure you have something on hand to entertain the masses once the main festivities are over.