No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, Inauguration Day marks a significant moment in American history. Hosting a watch party is a fantastic way to gather friends and family, celebrate democracy and enjoy some creative and themed food and drinks. The reality is that our country is deeply divided but most of us still enjoy humor, satire, and enjoying time with family and friends, so remember that while putting your plans together. While this menu is inspired by Donald Trump’s return to the White House, it’s all about having fun, sharing laughs, and enjoying delicious bites - not dividing people. So, let's raise a glass of Orange Punch and grab your Cheeto-Crusted Chicken Bites or if you'd prefer a Sour Grapes Skewer and a glass of Whine and let's get started!
Here’s how to plan a party that’s equal parts entertaining and delicious, complete with menu items that will spark conversation and smiles.
Set the Scene For Your Trump Inauguration Party
Decorate your space with red, white, and blue to give your party a patriotic flair. Flags, streamers, and balloons in national colors can create a festive atmosphere. For some added humor, incorporate props or signs with playful slogans. A photo booth area with fun accessories like oversized sunglasses, orange wigs, and gold crowns can add an extra layer of fun.
Building a Trump-Themed Menu: Food and Drinks
Food and drinks are the stars of any party, and this menu combines some of Trump’s favorites, playful nods to his persona, and crowd-pleasing flavors.
Appetizers
- "Orange You Glad He's Back" Cheese Platter
- A mix of orange cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and mimolette served with crackers, orange slices, and baby carrots for a splash of color.
- Cheeto-Crusted Chicken Bites
- Bite-sized chicken tenders coated in crushed Cheetos and baked until crispy. Serve with honey mustard or ranch for dipping.
- Trump Tower Nachos
- A towering stack of tortilla chips loaded with orange queso, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapeños.
- Sour Grapes Skewers
- Green and red grapes on skewers, drizzled with sour lemon syrup. A cheeky nod to the "whining" of election season.
Main Dishes
- "Big Mac Attack" Sliders
- Mini burgers styled after Trump’s favorite fast food order, complete with pickles, onions, cheese, and a special sauce.
- "Make Meatloaf Great Again"
- Individual meatloaf muffins topped with mashed potatoes piped like frosting and a drizzle of ketchup.
- Taco Bowls ("Trump Tower Taco Bowls")
- Crispy tortilla shells filled with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, shredded cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. Bonus points for including a sign that says, "I love taco bowls!"
- "Border Wall Dip"
- A seven-layer dip with refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese. Use thick rectangular tortilla chips or breadsticks to build a "wall" around the dip. This dish will be a party conversation starter for sure!
Desserts
- Golden Chocolate Coins
- Foil-wrapped chocolate coins served in a treasure chest for a touch of opulence.
- "Orange Delight" Creamsicle Cupcakes
- Orange and vanilla cupcakes topped with bright orange frosting and sprinkles.
- Trump’s Hair Cotton Candy
- Cups of yellow or orange cotton candy for a whimsical and sweet treat.
Cocktails
- "The Orange Punch"
- A fruity blend of orange juice, pineapple juice, vodka, and grenadine, garnished with an orange slice and cherry.
- "Sour Grapes Margarita"
- A margarita with an extra splash of sour mix, rimmed with salt, and garnished with lime.
- "Golden Old Fashioned"
- A classic Old Fashioned with a sprinkle of edible gold glitter for a luxurious twist.
- "Cheetos Martini"
- A vodka martini with a rim of crushed Cheetos. Quirky, fun, and surprisingly tasty!
- "Fake News Fizz"
- Champagne or prosecco with orange juice and grenadine for a sparkling drink.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Remember, while a lot of us are going to be drinking ... both to celebrate and also to drown our sorrows, Trump is not a drinker, so make sure to include non-alcoholic options too! Not only will your sober friends appreciate it but zero-proof drinks are on trend for 2025.
- "Covfefe Coffee Bar"
- Offer an assortment of coffee drinks with mix-ins like caramel, whipped cream, and orange syrup.
- "Orange Cream Soda"
- Orange soda topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy, fizzy refreshment.
Have Fun And Avoid Being Mean Spirited!
This Inauguration Day, let’s focus on celebrating history, democracy, and the shared experience of witnessing a significant moment together. A watch party is the perfect opportunity to laugh, connect, and enjoy good food and drinks with friends and family - no matter your political views. With this fun, lighthearted menu, your party is sure to be a success!
So fire up the TV, set out the snacks, and raise a glass to democracy—and to the laughs and memories you’ll make along the way.
