Inviting friends over to play card games can make for a fun, special evening. If the game is poker, then even more fun can be had. Poker is the original party card game and can be enjoyed the seasoned as well as neophyte player. Before hosting a poker night, prepare well for the event so that everyone is ensured to have a great time.

First, let's begin with what you need. A card table or the kitchen table will serve well as the playing area. If you are really serious, then poker table tops can be purchased that fit over existing tables, turning virtually any surface into a poker table. A poker table is felt and has a spot already carved out for poker chips, cards, and a drink. While a poker table is nice, it is not necessarily needed especially for a first poker night. If the first one is a success and there will be more in the future, then a poker table top might make things a little more manageable.

If you don't have a poker table, then make sure you have on hand some coasters for drinks. One thing that does with poker night is snacks, so protect your playing surface with coasters.

Next it is important to have a least two standard card decks on hand. If they are new, then take some time before the game to shuffle the cards so that they aren't so slick and are broken in. Having two card decks on hand will ensure that if something happens to one during the game like a card gets bent that you have a spare. Also sometimes a new card deck can "turn the luck" of the table if the game isn't going that well.

Have on hand some poker chips or ask guests to use change. If you are going to bet with change, then just use that. If you are just going to bet with no real stakes, then using poker chips or any other type of small, round objects will do.

Ask your guests to bring a snack to share. You are providing the place to have a poker night, so players should be willing to pitch in to help supply snacks.

Take turns being the dealer. It's usually dealer's choice as to which poker variant will be played unless the group agrees upon one variant beforehand. Playing dealer's choice will not only expose other people to different versions of poker but can be a lot of fun. If new players are coming to the game, then be prepared to go through the rules of poker with them.

Hosting a poker game night can be a lot of fun and with a little planning can be a huge success.