game night ideas

Second place is first loser. And I don‘t like to lose! I’ve always been very competitive and that’s part of the reason I love playing games with friends. But also, game night brings with it lots of laughter and memory making. I can still recall specific nights when hilarity ensued! Hosting a game night is a great way to loosen up and have fun with friends without the interruption of children. It’s a way to escape the challenges of everyday and live in “la la land” for a few hours.

Just as it’s important to make time for date nights, it’s important to spend time with friends. Here’s how you can host a grown up game night to remember!

1. Have A Good Selection Of Games

This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’ve got to make sure your game selection is something everyone will enjoy. Some people might like Scattergories (one of my faves!), while others might be more inclined to play Scrabble. Then of course, there’s Cards Against Humanity, which is all the rage these days. I haven’t played that one yet, but I hear it’s pretty entertaining! Your guests might break up into groups to play different games, so just have a little variety.

2. Set Out Snacks To Munch On

Adults, particularly male adults, need to snack often. Game night can be stressful if you’re competitive and having something to munch on can help alleviate that stress. Game night is serious business, people! But also, it’s nice to have snacks for your friends to enjoy. Set out easy stuff like chips, popcorn or a veggie tray.

3. Don’t Forget The Drinks

You know what’s more fun than game night? Intoxicated game night! Ok, I’m not suggesting that you get plastered, but having one or two drinks is a nice way to take off the edge. I’m not a big drinker myself, but if your friends are all about the booze, pour them a glass and let them enjoy the game a little tipsy. You’ll be more entertained and it might give you the upper hand!

4. Provide Ample Seating

Depending on how many people you’re planning on, you want to make sure to have enough seating. If your living room can only accommodate five people, but you’re expecting fifteen, bring some chairs from another room into the space, or pile up the pillows for some floor seating. People are likely to move around as the night goes on, but if you have enough options, they’ll find a way to get comfortable.

5. Don’t Be A Slob

If you’re expecting guests, clean your house! You don’t have to do a deep spring clean, but at least tidy up the common areas and rooms where your friends are likely to be. The bathroom, especially, should get some TLC. Nobody wants to use a dirty bathroom. A quick scrub of the toilet and sink(s) should do the trick.

6. Put Down The Phones

Seriously, we’re attached to our devices enough as it is. On game night, put them down and enjoy the company of your friends! Focus on them, on sharing stories and creating laughs together. That text, email and Pokeman Go stuff can wait until tomorrow.

7. Have Fun!

The most important thing about game night is to have fun. Even if you’re on the losing team, don’t take the game too seriously. (Note to self, am I right?) Game night isn’t about winning or losing, it’s about taking time to show those you love how much you enjoy spending time together.