How to Have a Successful Game Night

Having friends over to play games can be a great experience. It's a lot of fun but can be a lot of prep work. Here are some suggestions to lighten the load of the host and ensure everyone has a good time.

Snacks--Providing snacks for your guests is a nice gesture but can get a bit pricey especially if you are looking to game often. Instead of providing snacks, ask players to bring a snack with them. One person can bring chips, another can bring the dip. Our group of players usually brings their own snacks that they enjoy. Most are willing to share with the group. We have even had a "collection plate" where people could leave their spare change. This kitty money is then used to buy snacks and drinks for the next game session. You might even try setting up dues that players pay once a month instead of having a tip jar for snacks.

Space--Space can be problematic when having a game night. We try to clear the floor as much as possible. Usually we have one game going on around the kitchen table while some other players claim floor space for a game. If you have a small space then you might want to only have a few friends over at a time to play games.

Lights out--With our friends if we let them they would stay all night and play games. Since for most people this option is out of the question, set a time to start wrapping up games. Make sure a clock is visible in the area that you are playing, so you and the other players can keep track of time. Make certain that people know what time you would like to start winding down for the evening ahead of time. This way it doesn't feel like you are "kicking people out" when you politely remind people of the late hour it is getting to be.

Child's Play--While your friends are playing games, set up a special area for children to either play their own games or watch a movie. Children are usually good at entertaining themselves especially when other kids are around. Just be sure to check on them every once in a while. If you have the patience, try and include them in at least one game you are playing. It'll make their day.

Games to Play--A good variety of games is important. Once we find a game we like, we will play it from now on. We also enjoy playing new games, and I'm sure we are not the only ones. If there is a game you've been wanting to play, try it out with your friends.

Having friends over for a game night is so much fun. With a little preparation and a review of the house rules, it can be a wonderful experience for everyone.