On a tight budget but want something fun and social to do? How about a good old fashioned
games night?
A games night is a cheap and easy way to organise a social get-together with family or friends. A great way to have fun, show off your skills and boost communication, between both family and friends.
You don't have to be limited by the amount of people you have over either. There are plenty of games available that are able to be played by more than four players. Or if you don't have any, then why not just have more than one game going at once?
There are loads of games to suit all interests and abilities. Some games are very simple to play, while others require a bit of concentration. Whichever games you choose, you can always adapt the rules a bit to help people who are not familiar with that particular game or to make the game progress quicker. Try Monopoly, Scrabble or Trivial Pursuit.
Board games or card games are always popular, but there are also interactive electronic games available. Try the electronic game
Bop It - where you have to do exactly as the machine tells you to do. In some of the newer versions, there is an option to pass the game along to your friends. Try to beat one another's highest scores. This game soon becomes addictive - you can spend all night playing and still not be bored.
You don't even really need any board games. All you need for a great night in, is a deck of cards. With many games to choose from including Poker, Texas Hold 'Em, Blackjack and Baccarat, there are enough games to keep anyone entertained all night. Or if you have the game
Uno, then why not play that - it is a huge amount of fun for everyone.
Games Night can become a weekly or monthly habit. Hold it at a different person's house each time. Keep a running scoreboard from week to week (or each time you play) and offer a small prize for the champion. Arrange a few of your favourite snacks and drinks, or perhaps get everyone to bring some food and drinks with them. Share your games. Try some new games or ones that you haven't played for ages. How about Twister, Operation, Jenga or even Hungry, Hungry Hippos?
Your Games Night can be anything you want to make it. Perhaps a small group of people or maybe a larger group – it's up to you. With larger groups you have a few options. You can divide people into smaller groups, each group plays a different game, and groups compete against each other. Mix up the games so it doesn't get boring.
If you don't have many games at home, call your friends. They can all bring around some games, so you have plenty to choose from.
It can cost very little with a bit of organisation and cooperation. It doesn't matter what games you play as long as you join in, it can be quite exciting and challenging and have you laughing in no time. Most of all, make sure you have loads of fun.