How to Host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party, in 6 Steps
Hosting a murder mystery sounds like a lot of work. Most of it is done before anyone arrives. These six steps get you ready for Murder at Hollyfield Hall.
1. Pick a date and invite your guests
The game has eight parts. Invite eight people, and if one or two can’t come, it still plays with 6 or 7.
2. Send each guest their part a week ahead
Give each guest a character and send their invitation and character profile at least a week before, so they have time to plan a costume from their own wardrobe. Ask them to keep their profile to themselves.
3. Print and fill the envelopes
Print the pack in colour or black and white. Each player gets three round cards, one per course, so you’ll need three envelopes for each guest, labelled with their name and the round. Cut out the clue cards and keep them face down in order. Seal the solution in its own envelope.
4. Plan three courses
Each round of the game runs alongside one course: starters, main and dessert. Keep the cooking simple so you’re not stuck in the kitchen while the secrets come out.
5. Set the table
Candles, name cards and Christmas crackers set the scene. Dim lights help everyone stay in character.
6. Read the opening scene
Once everyone has a drink and a name tag, read the opening scene aloud, then the rules. From there the cards do the work.
Want to play as well?
You can. Hand the pack to a friend who isn’t coming and ask them to print it and fill the envelopes for you. Then you play like everyone else, and don’t see anyone else’s cards or the solution before the end.