March Madness 2026: Get ready for game day with our top picks, everything you need to throw the ultimate watch party

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The 2026 men’s March Madness tournament kicks off with Sunday, March 15. Sixty-eight teams will be competing for first place, so let the friendly games and competition begin. If you’re hosting a watch party, we’ve rounded up some fun and practical ideas to help you enjoy every moment, from the first tip to the final bell.

March Men’s Basketball Tournament Dry Erase Prop Poster

Hang this dry-erase poster so everyone can keep track of their picks as the tournament goes on. With room for all 68 teams, it’s a great way to follow the action, watch for upsets and stay informed as the road to the Final Four gets exciting. It also comes with a marker, so you’re ready from the start.

BenQ home entertainment projector

The main attraction is giving your guests a front row seat to the game with a large, clear 4K display. The BenQ TK705i projector is easy to use and has Google TV built-in, so streaming is simple and you don’t need additional hardware. It works well in bright living rooms or media spaces, and once people see the picture, yours could become the new favorite spot for game nights and movie shootouts.

Basketball string lights

Add some fun to your party with these basketball string lights. Hang them indoors or outdoors to liven up the theme and create fun photos that your guests will enjoy.

Orange painters tape

Get creative with painter’s tape. Set out a small basketball court on the floor or add bold stripes to the wall for a great photo backdrop. Try mixing colors for more flair. Guests will enjoy taking photos and sharing their best shots on social media.

Basketball hoop

Mount this mini basketball hoop on your tape-covered court and let the games begin. The durable, professional-style bezel and shatter-resistant backplate make it look authentic, so everyone can channel their inner best player and show off their best shots right in your living room.

Round plastic basketball tablecloth

Keep your theme strong with this basketball round tablecloth. It will go well with string lights and help pull your party setup together. Get a few of these for multiple tables to keep the basketball spirit front and center.

Mini basketball centerpiece

Decorate the room with these small cascading centerpieces. Place them on tables, shelves, or other places to add a fun touch to your home decor. They are easy to set up and offer great performances.

Giant foam finger

This giant 18 inch toy will be the most popular photo prop at your party. It also makes a great decoration. The fingerboard is large enough to fit in the hand without slipping, so your guests can cheer on their favorite team. Get several of them, because everyone will want to try them, and they make great gifts for guests to take home after the party.

Basketball lollipops

You’ll score points with these strawberry-flavored basketball-shaped lollipops. Each set contains 24 individually wrapped straws in a 10.16 oz box. They’re delicious, so make sure you have enough for guests to enjoy more than one.

Mars Madness Vintage Unisex Shirt

Get ready for a March Madness party with this “Let the Madness Begin” T-Shirt. It’s a simple and fun way to show your love for the game. With sizes up to 3XL, everyone can be part of the team.

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