Ask anyone I know, and my friends will tell you that I love hosting themed parties. I’m like Martha Stewart, if she was more weird and hosted game nights. One party idea that combines camaraderie with a sprinkle of competition is hosting a holiday poker night. Not only does it provide an opportunity for some friendly rivalry, but it can also create lasting memories. Here’s how to set up the perfect holiday poker night, ensuring that both seasoned players and newcomers have a fantastic time!
First and foremost, you’ll need a suitable space. Ideally, this should be a comfortable room with enough seating for all players. A dining table works well, but if you want to create an authentic poker atmosphere, consider investing in a poker table or a tablecloth that mimics one. Make sure the area is well-lit, as players will need to see their cards clearly. I started my first poker night gathered around my kitchen table with a bunch of the neighbourhood moms. I’ve since moved to the Community Room in my complex, which offers a lot more space to play and decorate for the holidays. Remember to leave room for the following crucial supplies:
- Poker Chips: Invest in a good set of poker chips that are easy to handle. If you don’t have any, you can make do with coins or other small items to represent different values. One thing I love is to go to the bulk aisle of my grocery store to buy chocolates that are wrapped to look like snowflakes and wreaths. Just remind your guests that the poker chips they eat are removed from play! You can also have a holiday gift basket for a tournament winner, or for somebody who wins by playing pocket 8’s, which are known as “snowmen.”
- Playing Cards: A couple of decks of cards will suffice. Make sure they are in good condition, as worn cards can spoil the experience. You can buy holiday themed playing cards at the dollar store, but keep in mind they will be cheap paper.
- Dealer Button: Having a dealer button helps to keep track of whose turn it is to deal. Make it a funky dealer button like a snowman or tree decoration that lights up to pass around.
- Snacks and Drinks: Prepare a range of festive snacks and drinks to keep the energy up. Think mince pies, cheese platters, and mulled wine or eggnog. These will create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Transform your space with festive decorations. Think twinkling fairy lights and a holiday-themed tablecloth. Leave any centerpieces for a side table that holds all the snacks, because too many decorations in the middle of the poker table will interfere with gameplay. You could even decorate a poker-themed Christmas tree with ornaments shaped like poker chips or playing cards. Take your holiday poker night to the next level by serving themed drinks and snacks. For example, serve cocktails that reflect the season, such as cranberry mojitos or peppermint martinis. For snacks, you might create a “poker night platter” featuring items that can be easily shared, like festive biscuits or chocolate coins. I suggest a cookie decorating station for any of the children in attendance.
Invite everyone with the reassurance that beginners are totally welcome. Encourage your guests to wear festive attire. This could be anything from Christmas jumpers to holiday-themed accessories. Not only does this add to the atmosphere, but it also provides a fun photo opportunity. For newcomers, Texas Hold’em is often the most popular choice, but a tournament may feel too complex. Consider playing some open hands to start out and playing a game without the blinds increasing if it makes things too hard for newbies to keep track of. Before the game begins, take some time to explain the basic rules and hand rankings. Visual aids can be helpful, so consider printing out a hand ranking chart for players to refer to during the game. Keep your explanations simple and straightforward, focusing on the essentials: The concepts of betting, raising, folding, checking, and calling as well as the importance of position at the table.
Encourage newcomers to ask questions. It’s crucial they feel comfortable, as the last thing you want is for anyone to feel overwhelmed or out of their depth. Foster an atmosphere of camaraderie where experienced players can offer tips and support. Share our Poker Power experience with the women in your game, or especially if you see some wanting to stay on the sidelines and watch their husbands play.
To keep the night lively, consider incorporating mini-games or challenges between poker rounds. This could be a quick trivia game, a holiday Charades round, or even a light-hearted bet where players must wear a silly light-up hat for a round if they lose a hand. These activities can keep the energy up and ensure everyone remains engaged, regardless of their poker skills. Hosting a holiday poker night is a fantastic way to bring people together while enjoying the spirit of the season. By creating a welcoming environment, ensuring everyone understands the game, and adding festive touches, you can create a memorable experience for all. So, gather your friends, shuffle those cards, and get ready for a night filled with laughter, competition, and holiday cheer!
Written by Dr. Alexandra ‘Doc’ Chauran
