The Oscars are coming up this February (the 22nd to be precise), and for some circles it's a big reason to plan a viewing party.  A viewing party, if you're unfamiliar, is like a regular party but it is based around watching a particular event.  In this case, the Oscars.  With less than a month till the shindig gets underway, we're posting a few ways that you can keep your Oscar party green, which will get you a thanks from the Academy, and Mother Earth.

First off, a big hit at Oscar parties is having everyone invited pick who they think will win for particular categories.  Instead of printing out a ballot for everyone attending, print out one master sheet.  Have each person participating initial next to their choices, and then the person in charge of the sheet keeps track of the real winners as the evening goes on.  This will also make it easier to tally everything up at the end of the night.  Printable ballots can be found on the Oscar website.

Another thing is to make snacks and appetizers at home, instead of ordering out for pizza.  Not only will you save money, but you'll keep the carbon offset of the party lower.  Buy locally grown vegetables, and organic rice and seaweed and make sushi, or make your own mini pizzas with organic toppings on home-made challah bread.  You can make them more personal, and with an Oscar twist.  How about a Benjamin Button-Mushroom Pizza, or a Kung-Fu Panda Roll?   Also, make sure that your party supplies are sustainable, too.  Don't get plastic plates that you just throw away.  Look for paper places that can be recycled or composted.

If you have a group of friends coming from one area of town, request that they car pool to your party.  Not only will there be less cars on the road, but it will make it easier to pick a designated driver if you'll be serving alcohol.

Keep an eye out here for more green Oscar party planning tips as it gets closer to the event.  We have no "Doubt" that you'll find them easy to follow, and enjoyable too.