Arguably the best thing about hosting a night playing cards is the versatility. You can go low-key and just plan for pizza and beer with your friends, or invite half the campus for an all-out Vegas-themed bash. Even if you’re just looking for a happy median between the two, any kind of poker party requires a little planning.
Take a look at some of our suggestions to help you throw the ultimate bash.
Learn How to Play the Game
You’re hosting the party—do you really want all of your guests waiting on you to grasp the concept of a straight before they can deal the next hand? Betfair has a strategic guide on getting started in poker that not only can teach you the rules of the game, but the terminology and the skills necessary to keep you from losing your shirt. Practice enough and you could even earn a few bucks off your friends.
Get the Right Food
If you’re trying to impress someone with your culinary skills, The Food Network has a list of recipes and menus that will rival those of Vegas. As a rule of thumb, however, the food at your poker party should be pretty simple, as in no silverware required. It’s always safe to go with your standards of chips and dip, and order a couple of sandwiches, wings, or pizza for something more filling.
Decor
When you’re just hosting a poker night with the guys, the only decor you’ll need is a felt table top and a set of poker chips. If you’re going for a big casino theme, though, you’ll need to step up your game. Red, green, black, and silver-colored items will give the room the classic casino vibe. Most party super stores will have additional supplies like card and dice-themed cutlery, but Party City is home to a wide supply of roulette wheels, and craps and blackjack table covers.
Entertainment
Sometimes cards and casino games serve as entertainment enough. But whether you’re hosting a small get-together or a huge blow-out, you’ll want another source of entertainment to keep people occupied in between games—or when they run out of chips. Opt for some poker themed movies in the background such as Casino Royale, Rounders, or the Ocean’s Eleven series.
Perfect your poker playing skills and use a few of our suggestions to add some special touches. Then, big or small, you’ll be well on your way to one hell of a poker night.
