27 Fun Things to Do at a Party with Friends [2024]

high angle photo of assorted-color plastic balls

Have you ever found yourself at a party with friends, wondering what to do to make the night more memorable and enjoyable? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of 27 fun activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories. So, let’s dive in and discover the best ways to have a blast at your next party!

Quick Answer

Looking for quick ideas to make your party unforgettable? Here are some fun things to do at a party with friends:

  1. Have a themed dance-off with a playlist from a specific decade.
  2. Plan an at-home trivia night with designated teams and inside jokes.
  3. Opt for classic board games like Sorry! and Life.
  4. Turn your place into a casino with blackjack or roulette games.
  5. Play charades for endless entertainment.
  6. Put on a scavenger hunt, either at home or in the neighborhood.
  7. Throw a pizza- or cheeseboard-making party with ready-made dough and toppings.
  8. Ask everyone to bring their “signature dish” for a twist on potluck.
  9. Gather around a bonfire for a cozy party with blankets and s’mores.
  10. Plan a picnic for a fresh-air twist on a typical brunch order.
  11. Set up a DIY bar for guests to mix their own drinks.
  12. Host an ice cream social or a booze-free party with different toppings.
  13. Create an outdoor theater with a projection screen and popcorn bar.
  14. Set up a backyard carnival with games and tickets for a memorable night.
  15. Organize a clothing swap for friends to update their closets for free.
  16. Host a book exchange or a wine tasting party for a unique gathering.
  17. Sing karaoke at home and give awards at the end of the night.
  18. Set up a small canvas and paint for friends to illustrate what they see.
  19. Have a throwback slumber party with self-care activities and skincare samples.
  20. And many more!

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Incorporate a number to indicate the list’s length, especially if the competitor’s headline specifies a number—ours offers more.
  • Make sure to have a variety of activities to cater to different interests and preferences.
  • Consider the space and resources available when planning the activities.
  • Encourage everyone to participate and create a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
  • Provide clear instructions and any necessary materials for each activity.
  • Take photos and videos to capture the fun moments and create lasting memories.

Background

gold balloons on brown wooden table

Parties with friends have been a popular way to socialize and have fun for centuries. People gather together to celebrate special occasions, enjoy each other’s company, and create unforgettable memories. Throughout history, parties have evolved, and new activities and games have been introduced to keep the entertainment factor high.

27 Fun Things to Do at a Party with Friends

Now, let’s explore each of these fun activities in more detail:

1. Have a Themed Dance-Off

✅ Have a blast with a themed dance-off! Choose a specific decade or music genre and create a playlist that will get everyone grooving. Encourage your friends to dress up in outfits that match the theme, and let the dance battle begin!

2. Plan an At-Home Trivia Night

✅ Test your knowledge and have a friendly competition with an at-home trivia night. Divide your friends into teams and come up with trivia questions that are tailored to your group’s interests. Don’t forget to include inside jokes for an extra laugh!

3. Opt for Board Games

✅ Board games are a classic choice for a fun night with friends. Choose popular games like Sorry! and Life, or try out some newer ones that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Board games are a great way to bond and create friendly rivalries.

4. Turn Your Place Into a Casino

✅ Bring the excitement of a casino to your own home by setting up blackjack or roulette games. Use play money or poker chips to add to the authenticity. Place your bets and see who comes out on top!

5. On a Budget? Play Charades

✅ Charades is a timeless game that requires no props or special equipment. It’s perfect for parties on a budget! Split into teams and take turns acting out words or phrases without speaking. It’s guaranteed to bring lots of laughter and entertainment.

6. Put on a Scavenger Hunt

✅ Add an element of adventure to your party by organizing a scavenger hunt. Create a list of items or clues that your friends need to find, either in your home or in the neighborhood. The first team to complete the hunt wins!

7. Throw a Pizza- or Cheeseboard-Making Party

✅ Get creative in the kitchen by throwing a pizza- or cheeseboard-making party. Provide ready-made dough and a variety of toppings for everyone to customize their own pizza or cheeseboard. It’s a delicious and interactive way to enjoy good food and company.

8. Ask Everyone to Bring Their Signature Dish

✅ Put a twist on the traditional potluck by asking each of your friends to bring their “signature dish.” This way, everyone gets to showcase their culinary skills and share their favorite recipes. It’s a great way to discover new flavors and enjoy a diverse feast.

9. Gather ‘Round a Bonfire

✅ If you have access to a backyard or a safe outdoor space, gather around a bonfire for a cozy and intimate party. Provide blankets, marshmallows, and graham crackers for s’mores. Share stories, sing songs, and enjoy the warmth of the fire.

10. Plan a Picnic

✅ Take advantage of good weather and plan a picnic with your friends. Choose a scenic location, pack some delicious food and drinks, and enjoy a relaxed and refreshing outdoor gathering. Don’t forget to bring games or activities to keep everyone entertained.

11. Set up a DIY Bar

✅ Create a DIY bar where your friends can mix their own drinks. Provide a variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes, along with recipe cards for inspiration. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy customized cocktails and experiment with different flavors.

12. Throw an Ice Cream Social

✅ Who doesn’t love ice cream? Host an ice cream social where everyone can indulge in their favorite frozen treats. Set up a toppings bar with a variety of sauces, sprinkles, and other delicious toppings. It’s a sweet way to cool down and satisfy your cravings.

13. Create an Outdoor Theater

✅ Transform your backyard into an outdoor theater by setting up a projection screen and a popcorn bar. Choose a classic movie or a new release, provide cozy seating options, and let everyone enjoy a cinematic experience under the stars.

14. Set up a Backyard Carnival

✅ Bring the excitement of a carnival to your backyard by setting up games and tickets for your friends to enjoy. Create classic carnival games like ring toss, bean bag toss, and balloon darts. Offer prizes for the winners and create a festive atmosphere.

15. Organize a Clothing Swap

✅ Give your friends the opportunity to update their closets for free by organizing a clothing swap. Ask everyone to bring gently used clothes, shoes, and accessories that they no longer wear. It’s a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe and bond with friends.

16. Host a Book Exchange

✅ If your friends are bookworms, host a book exchange party. Ask everyone to bring a book they’ve enjoyed and are willing to pass on. Create a cozy reading corner and let everyone choose a new book to take home. It’s a great way to discover new authors and have meaningful discussions.

17. Have a Wine Tasting Party

✅ Explore the world of wine with a wine tasting party. Ask each of your friends to bring a bottle of their favorite wine or a wine from a specific region. Provide tasting notes and scorecards to rate each wine. It’s a sophisticated and enjoyable way to expand your wine knowledge.

18. Sing Karaoke

✅ Unleash your inner superstar and have a karaoke night at home. Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app on your TV. Let everyone choose their favorite songs and give awards for the best performances. It’s a guaranteed way to have a night filled with laughter and unforgettable moments.

19. Tap into Your Inner Artists

✅ Get creative and set up a small canvas and paint for your friends to unleash their artistic talents. Provide a variety of paints, brushes, and other art supplies. Encourage everyone to create their own masterpiece and showcase their unique artistic style.

20. Have a Throwback Slumber Party

✅ Relive your childhood memories by having a throwback slumber party. Set up a cozy sleeping area with blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags. Plan activities like watching classic movies, playing board games, and indulging in self-care activities. It’s a nostalgic and fun way to bond with your friends.

Looking for more party ideas and inspiration? Check out our other articles on Party Checklist™:

FAQ

white learning number trading cards

How do you have fun at a party with friends?

Having fun at a party with friends is all about creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Here are some tips to ensure a good time:

  • Plan a variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences.
  • Encourage everyone to participate and engage in the activities.
  • Provide clear instructions and any necessary materials for each activity.
  • Create a friendly and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable.
  • Capture the fun moments by taking photos and videos to create lasting memories.

Read more about “Outdoor Party Ideas for Adults: How to Throw the Ultimate Bash …”

How can I make my party fun?

To make your party fun, consider the following:

  • Plan a mix of interactive and entertaining activities.
  • Provide delicious food and drinks that cater to different tastes.
  • Create a lively atmosphere with music and decorations.
  • Encourage your friends to participate and engage in the activities.
  • Be a gracious host and make sure everyone feels welcome and included.

How do you keep friends entertained at a party?

To keep your friends entertained at a party, try these ideas:

  • Plan a variety of activities that cater to different interests.
  • Create friendly competitions or games that encourage participation.
  • Provide entertainment options like music, movies, or karaoke.
  • Keep the energy high by engaging with your friends and encouraging them to interact with each other.
  • Be attentive to your friends’ needs and make sure everyone is having a good time.

Read more about “What do you need for a party checklist? …”

What do people do at parties?

People do a variety of activities at parties, depending on the occasion and the preferences of the attendees. Some common activities include:

  • Socializing and catching up with friends.
  • Playing games or participating in friendly competitions.
  • Enjoying food and drinks.
  • Dancing and listening to music.
  • Watching movies or engaging in other forms of entertainment.
  • Taking photos and creating memories.
  • Engaging in conversations and discussions.
  • Participating in themed activities or dress-up events.

Read more about “Words to Describe a Great Party …”

Conclusion

a group of people playing a game of foo foo

When it comes to having a fun party with friends, the possibilities are endless. From dance-offs to trivia nights, board games to backyard carnivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Remember to consider your friends’ interests and preferences when planning the activities, and create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

So, the next time you’re hosting a party, try out some of these ideas and create an unforgettable experience for you and your friends. Get ready to laugh, dance, and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Looking for party planning inspiration? Check out these recommended links:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *