Games night throwdown

Well, wasn’t that fun?!? After a frenetic holiday season of parties, gifting, and the grand ball drop finale, now what?? After few days hiatus (where we disassembled the holiday environs), does the social bug start to creep back in to your subconscious? Me too! But if you aren’t ready for any full blown soiree’s, how about trying a low key games night on for size?

photo credit: invitation, uno cake, games tower, checkerboard sandwiches, scrabble cupcakes

A throwback to a more simple time, there is something about games night that is so comfortable and brings back fond memories. Makes me want to sport a striped turtleneck, corduroy pants and play The Knack. My Sharona, anyone? Problem is, nobody seems to play cards anymore. Heck, even I don’t know any card games beyond euchre and cribbage. Thank goodness for that handy dandy new invention called the internet – you can look up all the card games you ever wanted to learn here.

photo credit: card hand, cosy turtleneck

Beyond cards, you can search the recesses of your closet for all the great game options that may have gotten a bit dusty of late. Evite has some great pointers for a games party here including Cranium, Trivial Pursuit, Risk and Liar’s Dice to name a few. Have fun playing under your hyper-competitive alter ego’s pseudonym as not to tarnish your own name.

photo credit: pictionary, liar's dice, cranium, euchre

Once you have selected your ~~vehicle to enact your plan for total world domination~~ party game, you can start by tricking out your house with your games night theme. Menu items should include finger foods and bowls of snacks set out with small plates which are best for active guests. A self-serve refreshment bar will keep libations flowing throughout the evening.

As the competition heats up, dangle a few carrots to motivate rivalries with some goofy prizes. Your guests will be clamoring for a cheesy take home trophy and bragging rights until the score can be settled – at the next games night! Now get out there, have fun and play safe!