Entertaining Recipes

How to Host a Fun (and Easy) Game Night

Playing RumiKub has become a new favorite activity.  And whether it’s that game or another, we enjoy hosting game night.

I thought I’d share some of my favorite tips to make hosting game night easy since we know fun will be happening.

Set the Time

Deciding on the time we are playing will set the stage for place, food, etc.  Sometimes we play games at the pool late morning while in Colorado. 

Other times we gather late afternoon and incorporate happy hour into the occasion.

Pick a Place

For swimming pool game day, hub usually brings the game and we find a table in the shade where we have quick access for a dip to cool off.

When we host, the kitchen table is our game hub if there are four players.  For additional players, we gather at the dining room table.

My sister Susie has a nice fire pit table on the patio where we played one afternoon. 

Plan the Menu

Full disclosure, when we meet at the pool, we usually sneak in some contraband snacks and drinks. Barb and Evon, game buddies, are also really good bakers, and sometimes treat us to homemade goodies.

If game night is late afternoon, heavy hors d‘oeuvres are on the menu. 

Last time we hosted, this was the menu:

  • BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches
  • Crudités
  • Deviled eggs
  • Wavy chips (I know, always chips!)
  • Chocolates

I tried a new recipe for crock pot BBQ chicken from Sugarspunrun.com and it turned out delish. I can see why this recipe rates 5 stars. It’s simple and is company worthy.

And a tiny bit of Frank’s always sends every recipe to the next level.

Plan the Drinks

If we are drinking alcohol, I also like to supply non-alcohol drinks such as decaf iced tea and seltzer water.

Select Some Music

I have found the Carol King playlist on Pandora is excellent for listening and as a background for games.  Either the Bright Max or Bose Bluetooth are handy for taking to the pool or just using in our own home.

 Play Your Game

For me, playing the game is the least important part of the gettogether.  I just love being with friends and family.

But, when hosting a game night, things are relaxed and casual. There is no pressure for a perfect meal or cocktail presentation.