Superbowl!

Culturally, Americans have praised the superbowl for quite some time. Each year, families across the country, and the world for that matter, huddle around the television to watch the "big game". The game itself determines which team is the "world champion" (although it is really only played in America). Yet, if you don't care so much about the actual football, the commercials are just as entertaining. Thus, you have incentive for your husband and wife to watch it together in case one did not find interest in the game itself. The superbowl has become a national (and global) holiday in which nearly everyone must see it.

Economically, the superbowl reins in nearly $9 Billion according to www.alternet.org. There is a tremendous industry that involves an extensive market of advertising, restaurant business, product sales, and much more. Millions of Americans watch the superbowl each year- even though it is simply a sporting event that has no actual impact on our lives. Companies pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to put a 30 second advertisement during the superbowl. Restaurants host "superbowl watching parties" that attract many customers to their businesses. Even movie theatres rake in money by displaying the superbowl on their big screens. Apparel sales skyrocket for those companies that sell the winning team's gear. As individuals, those who associate with the winning team generally buy the new apparel features their sports team winning. I must admit, I did the same when Kansas University won the 2008 National DI Championship. Spending money wasn't a factor. When "your" team won, you bought "their" stuff.