Hosting murder mystery parties has become my all time favorite way to host. My very first murder mystery that I went to was actually in Brussels, Belgium. My husband and I stopped in Belgium while traveling overseas to visit a friend who was living abroad. We had just landed and within hours she had (somehow, still not sure how) convinced us to come to her friends murder mystery party. The theme was surrounding a wine vineyard so of course I was sold immediately, ha!
Since that trip we have hosted 4 more of our own and they have quickly become a favorite event among us and our friends!
I’ve listed out below a general outline of what you can expect when hosting a murder mystery. Every time I’ve done one it has come from Shot in the Dark Mysteries. This company I highly recommend because the host gets to play and be just as involved as the guests, which isn’t always the case with other brands.
Time: 2-3 hours
Preparation
- Purchase the game that you want to play & know exactly how many guys/girls are coming. I highly recommend the 20’s theme!
- Read through the generic descriptions & look at how difficult/interactive each character is and then assign to each guest based on personality
- Email out their characters (without opening and reading about them) and send instructions for dressing up, etc.
- Organize food and beverages (halloween ideas below)
Day Of
- Welcome everyone
- Mingle, get food, drinks
- Play opening video provided by Shot in the Dark
- Provide pen, paper, and included map
- Allow 1 – 1.5 hours for mingling, asking questions, interrogating, making connections, etc
- After the allotted time come back together and discuss; everyone votes
- Play closing video provided by shot in the dark
Serverware Ideas
FAQ
Q: What happens if someone says they can come last minute?
A: You can purchase additional characters to add onto your package
Q: Can the host participate?
A: Yes! That’s why I love this company in particular
Q: What ages are murder mysteries appropriate for?
A: Each game has an angel rating based on what it involves. If there’s mention of drugs or alcohol then it gets a lower angel rating. If you want kids to play then pick one with a higher rating! None of the games are explicit in any way.
Q: Is it difficult to get in character?
A: Not at all! I usually send out the character descriptions to my guests a few days in advance so everyone can have a chance to read it over. Sometimes I have mine pulled up on my phone in case I forget what I can and cannot say (it will tell you exactly!).
Halloween Murder Mystery Menu!
- Mummy Dogs
- Brain Rice Crispy Treats
- Nuggets from McDonalds or Chickfila
- A variety of Halloween candy
- Pub cheese pumpkins
- Charcuterie
- Veggie tray
- Check out these halloween punch recipes from Country Living!
A few links may be affiliates which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you!
Decorate Design Convenient Modern
Do you need help styling a table or shelf? Or are you in need of a makeover in your living room? Message me and let’s chat!