The 49ers are back in the NFC Championship Game for the first time in 14 seasons, and Northern California is ready to party like it's 1981.
The only question is, where to party? Not all of us have tickets to Sunday's game at Candlestick Park, but we have options.
Sports bars with wide high-definition screens can be fun. It's kind of like going to the game, sitting among strangers who also are 49ers fans. By the end of the game, you're hugging and high-fiving each other.
But sports bars can be overpriced, crowded and unruly, and you'd better get there early if you want a seat. And just like at the 'Stick, you may have to deal with foulmouthed fans who have consumed too many, too fast.
House parties with friends and family are always fun. You can sit in relaxing chairs, contribute food and/or drink to the festivities, and you don't have to tip a bartender.
But then again the host may have rules about disturbing the neighbors with loud shouts or cursing after Michael Crabtree drops another pass because there are kids in the room.
So that leaves us with one other option – watching the game alone at home.
It's not the most social choice to make, but it does have advantages. You can scream as loud as you want – or sit in silence without being bothered. No one's going to block your view, and there's no line for the bathroom.
The bad news: There's nobody there to hug or high-five if the 49ers win.
The good news: There's nobody there to see you cry if they don't.
What to watch
NBA, Kings at Spurs, 5:30 p.m., CSNCA: The Kings look for another road win in San Antonio.
Today's poll
If you don't have tickets, where will you watch Sunday's NFC title game?
• At a bar
• At a party
• At home
• I'm not watching
Vote above or leave your comments in the comment field; Or, go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Thursday's results
Which 49ers offensive player will be the difference-maker vs. the Giants?
• Alex Smith 32%
• Vernon Davis 11%
• Frank Gore 34%
• David Akers 18%
• Other 5%
Total votes: 331
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