A few in Macon give up comforts of home for outdoor Super Bowl party

While most people around the midstate Sunday were watching the Super Bowl from the cozy confines of living rooms and bars, a few were doing the next best thing to actually being at the game.

About 30 people bundled up in coats and blankets watched the game on two big-screen TVs set up at Tattnall Square Park.

Most said they gave up the comforts of home because watching the game outside made it seem more like being there.

Sarena "Queen" Fuller, who sang during half time, said she liked the idea of an outdoor Super Bowl party.

"You can't really be a part of the Super Bowl unless you are actually out in the cold like the fans at the Super Bowl," she said. "Sharing the cold weather really makes you feel like you are in the stadium with them."

Wykeshia Freeman of Macon brought her son and daughter. Her son, Warrick, 6, is a big sports fan and was pulling for the Carolina Panthers.

"It was just a first experience for us to come out and tailgate rather than sitting at the house," she said. "I think its a good idea to get everybody together."

The event drew about 30 people. It was organized by Barry Fickling, a deejay, and his father, Bob Fickling, a jazz promoter.

There was no admission charge and nothing was being sold. The Ficklings said they did it as a community service. This is the first year they have done it, and they said it will be annual event.

"I just wanted to do a family fun event for Middle Georgia so that people could bring their kids," Barry Fickling said. "I just wanted to have something for the kids to come and enjoy themselves."

To contact writer Wayne Crenshaw, call 256-9725.

This story was originally published February 7, 2016 at 8:33 PM with the headline "A few in Macon give up comforts of home for outdoor Super Bowl party ."