The holiday season is the perfect time to bring people together for fun, laughter, and some friendly competition. A well-organized board game night can be a memorable way to celebrate with family and friends. Here’s your guide to pulling off a fantastic event that both casual and experienced gamers will enjoy!
Step 1: Choose the Right Games 🎲
The key to a successful game night is selecting games that suit your group. Consider the following:
Number of Players: Make sure you pick games that accommodate the size of your gathering. For smaller groups, try games like CATAN or Ticket to Ride. For larger groups, party games like Piles! or Just One are great options.
Skill Levels: If there are beginners or kids joining, avoid overly complex games. Opt for easy-to-learn options like Dixit, Azul, or Werewolves.
Themes and Mood: Since it’s the holidays, you could lean into the festive spirit with winter-themed games like ICECOOL or The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Variety: Have a mix of strategy, cooperation, and party games to cater to different tastes.
Step 2: Set Up the Perfect Space
Create an inviting and comfortable environment for your guests:
Seating: Ensure there’s enough seating for everyone and room around the table to play without knocking over pieces.
Lighting: Proper lighting is essential. You want enough light to read cards and see details but still maintain a cozy vibe. String lights can add a festive touch.
Noise Control: Try to keep distractions like music or TV to a minimum. Background holiday tunes at a low volume can set the mood without being overpowering.
Organized Game Area: Use trays or bowls to manage small game pieces, dice, or cards for easier clean-up.
Step 3: Plan Your Schedule
A well-timed schedule helps keep the night on track:
Start with Icebreakers: Begin with light and easy games that encourage mingling, such as Perudo or Spot It!
Main Event: Choose a mid-length game for the centerpiece of the night. For example, Dixit or 7 Wonders are excellent choices.
End with Fun Party Games: Wrap up with quick, laughter-filled games like Exploding Kittens, Wavelength, or trivia-based options.
Estimate your timing so the entire event lasts between 2-4 hours, depending on your group. Flexibility is key — don’t be afraid to adjust based on the energy of the room.
Step 4: Snacks & Drinks
No great game night is complete without refreshments!
Keep It Simple: Finger foods are perfect to avoid messy game components. Think veggie trays, chips, popcorn, or holiday cookies.
Themed Snacks: Add a thematic twist to your food. For example, serve “Meeple” marshmallow treats or dice-shaped brownies.
Drinks: Offer a mix of non-alcoholic options (like hot chocolate or cider) and seasonal cocktails for the adults. Don’t forget coasters to protect the game boards!
Step 5: Add a Festive Touch
Since it’s a holiday game night, sprinkle in some seasonal cheer:
Decorations: Add festive tablecloths, garlands, or holiday-themed napkins.
Prizes: Prepare small gifts like chocolates, mini-game expansions, or holiday ornaments for game winners.
Dress Code: Encourage guests to wear holiday sweaters or cozy pajamas to match the theme.
Step 6: Be a Great Host
As the organizer, your attitude sets the tone for the night:
- Be ready to explain the rules clearly and patiently. It helps to review the instructions before your guests arrive.
- If possible, set up the games beforehand to save time.
- Be flexible and make sure everyone is having fun. If a game’s not going well, don’t hesitate to switch gears.
Step 7: Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to document the night! Take pictures of the setup, the laughter, and the unforgettable moments. You could even create a small leaderboard for fun and have a trophy or crown for the night’s overall champion.
Bonus Tips
Starter Kit for New Players: If you have beginners, let them warm up with games like Brick Like This! or Happy Mochi, which are beginner-friendly but satisfying for all.
Rotating Hosts: If your group enjoys game nights, use this event to kick off a tradition with rotating hosts each holiday season.
Include Kids: If kids are attending, set up their own corner with age-appropriate games like My First Carcassonne or My First Unlock! – Duck Stories
A holiday board game night is the ultimate way to celebrate togetherness and create lasting memories. With a bit of planning and a dash of festive flair, your gathering will be talked about long after the last dice is rolled.
Liked these games? Find out where you can find them, here.
