How to Plan a Murder Mystery Murder Dinner Party

Murder mystery dinner parties are an easy way to bring groups of strangers or acquaintances together with little stress or awkwardness. With a murder mystery kit and a little planning, you can host an entertaining murder mystery party for close friends, family, coworkers or neighbors for most any event or holiday you celebrate.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Murder mystery game kit (available online or locally at bookstores, toy stores or hobby shops)
• Food and drinks
• Guest list
• Decorations
• Party venue

Plan a Murder Mystery Dinner Party

1. Make up a guest list. You can include children and teens as well as adults, but keep them in mind when selecting your game.

2. Find and select a murder mystery game kit. Choose one suitable for the number of guests, their ages and interests.

3. Select a venue for your dinner party. Use your own home or a friend's, or look online or in your phone book for "party venues" for more options.

4. Plan your menu. Many game kits include menu suggestions, but you can provide your own, order delivery or arrange a potluck dinner.

5. Enlist a designated driver or prepare sleeping arrangements for guests if serving alcohol.

6. Mail invitations two to four weeks beforehand. Include the menu, costume ideas, character sheets and the directions, address and telephone number of your venue. Add RSVP cards with your contact information to avoid unexpected absences.

7. Purchase supplies for one week before your party. Don't forget your own costume!

8. Double check your venue reservation three or four days before the party. Finalize any payment and ask any last questions.

9. Prepare background information, character sheets and any other necessities for each guest.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a game that matches your guests' interests.
• If you serve alcohol, be certain it is allowed in your chosen venue and that all guests are of legal drinking age.
• Supply soft drinks for guests who don't drink alcohol and plenty of water for all guests.
• Plan your party four to six weeks in advance to allow time to book venues, send invitations, buy supplies and for guests to arrange costumes.
• Be flexible and prepared. Occasionally guests don't show up or bring a friend, and scripts may need small rewrites or timing changes to make them work for your party.
• Never drink and drive or allow others to do so.
• If you want to participate in the game, ask a friend or hire someone (like a local actor) to take on hosting duties. Be careful when scanning story details so you don't accidentally discover the murderer's identity!

[murdermystery]

on 9/15/2008 Great tips for a murder mystery dinner party! Thanks.